On the Edge – Day Three

By Fr. Mike Bertram, OFM Cap., Capuchin Community Services Ministry Director

Capuchin Community Services has received a great deal of attention for its expanded services to the poor during the Republican National Convention, even situated as it is on the very border of the security zone at 9^th Street. The services at St. Ben’s continue even with disruptions throughout the city due to the Convention. Guests at St. Ben’s have greatly appreciated the evening shelter program running throughout Convention week, and volunteers who normally offer their help for the winter shelter program responded quickly to an invite to help with the shelter running this week. Pictured are some of those who spent the night with our guests: Mike, Sharri, and Br. Henryk.

Interviews have been numerous as both Fr. Mike and Kenny Howard have been asked to offer a few words on Capuchin Community Services. Radio, television and newpaper outlets from around the country have been to Capuchin Community Services for an “angle” on the Convention from the standpoint of social services to the poor. In so many instances in other cities, the poor are rounded up and physically removed from event venues so as to “clean up the city” and not have the presence of homeless people during major events. Not so with Capuchin Community Services, which has drawn great media interest and praise from local Milwaukeans.

An unfortunate incident occurred last night when a man known to CCS and its guests was shot and killed by out-of-state law enforcement a few blocks from St. Ben’s.  “Samuel” was known by guests and staff at CCS who were familiar with him through the Shower Program and the winter shelter. Samuel was remembered in prayer at the Meal last evening, and some of the guests were shaken to hear of his death, some decrying the excessive response of police officers. Two eye witnesses who came to the Meal described the event as an “execution,” and an inquiry is now underway into the actions of the officers. CCS continues to offer its services, including intervention and de-escalation of events involving homeless people, as many poor and homeless people are known to Capuchin Community Services through its ministries.