July 4th picnic for people who have no place to go
Photos by Jana Braam
#GivingTuesday
During this special time of the year, it’s important to remember those of us who may struggle. In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it's easy to lose sight of what really matters. This #GivingTuesday, choose to make a difference.
On Tuesday, November 27th, 2018, you can help Milwaukee families survive the winter while sending a message of hope and encouragement. What better way to celebrate than by showing your love on #GivingTuesday.
Make your gift now and help families in need.
On Tuesday, November 27th, 2018, you can help Milwaukee families survive the winter while sending a message of hope and encouragement. What better way to celebrate than by showing your love on #GivingTuesday.
Make your gift now and help families in need.
Adekola and Friends
These are images captured by photographer Carol Starr from our spectacular fundraiser concert November 16.
The evening, named "Adekola and Friends," featured Adekola Adedapo and her guitarist; Ben Merens, Steve Haberman and Jahmes Finlayson as performers. The event combined performances with Sing-a-long. Dorothy James was emcee.
The evening, named "Adekola and Friends," featured Adekola Adedapo and her guitarist; Ben Merens, Steve Haberman and Jahmes Finlayson as performers. The event combined performances with Sing-a-long. Dorothy James was emcee.
The Hiding Place
To praise God for fleas -- in a Nazi concentration camp.. ...seeing the Sunday performance, March 18, of The Hiding Place had us all .on the edge of our seats. Here's 8 of our MBHS volunteers with members of the cast. This Acacia Theatre production portrays the true story of how the Christian ten Boom family sheltered Jews in their small house until it is discovered by the Nazis. It is a remarkable portrait of Corrie ten Boom and her sister's endurance and their sure hope of God as deliverer.
Adekola Adedapo Program
Musician, Priestess, Teacher -- all in one person named Adekola Adedapo, shown here with those gathered at the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary on March 16. We are all richer from her transformational talk sourced from wellsprings of African wisdom. She challenged us to be part of the force for Good during this intense time of Good vs. Evil and gave everyone tools for the challenge.
West Allis Mercy Mats
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Riddle: what do you get when you mix 700 plastic grocery bags with a team of caring women with crochet hooks?
Answer: Compassion in the form of a Mercy Mat. Five West Allis Mercy Mats members took part in the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary weekly clothing distribution on March 11. As they handed out the durable, washable mats to provide comfort for people sleeping on floors, recipients responded with heartfelt thanks. Each mat takes approximately 70 hours to crochet to completion--a real labor of love. |
Guest Ben Merens
By the waters of Babylon we lay down and wept for thee Zion...who can sing this better than Ben Merens? He "had us at hello." On March 9, staff, volunteers and guests of the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary were transported by Ben's soulful storytelling and music to a plane where Life is powerfully lived in mutual Hope and lovingkindness.
Jahmes Tony Finlayson Program
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We were spellbound. Multi-talented Jahmes Tony Finlayson brought his music, storytelling, drumming and poetry to a gathering of MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary volunteers, staff and guests on March 2nd. He touched our souls. We were honored that he came to be with us.
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Earl Ingram Show
Earl Ingram, Jr. more than demonstrated his commitment to the greater good by doing a 3-hour live broadcast of his statewide talk show inside the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary building-under-construction at 2461 W. Center St. -- in the epicenter of the 53206 zip code -- on March 2nd, 2018.
No heat and no restrooms did not concern him. He welcomed more than twenty people to the microphone. By the end of the three hours we had to turn some away.
We are grateful he honored our Vision in this way and so eloquently and genuinely promoted compassion and unity.
You can listen to this extraordinary show at http://newstalk1510am.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Earl-Ingram-Show-3-3-18-Hour-1.mp3
No heat and no restrooms did not concern him. He welcomed more than twenty people to the microphone. By the end of the three hours we had to turn some away.
We are grateful he honored our Vision in this way and so eloquently and genuinely promoted compassion and unity.
You can listen to this extraordinary show at http://newstalk1510am.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Earl-Ingram-Show-3-3-18-Hour-1.mp3
Black History Month
On Friday, February 16, 2018, our Black History guest presenter was professional artist Evelyn Patricia Terry, whose visual art has been recognized locally, statewide, nationally and globally. She shared about her life and showed us samples of her work. Our time with her was too short--we wanted more. Here she is with volunteers and staff of MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary.
Clayburn Benson Program
Not one dull moment when Clayburn Benson, Black Historical Society Director, gave a program to twenty three MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary volunteers and staff-persons and MSOE School of Nursing students during our weekly Friday Sanctuary event on February 9, 2018.
Holy Family Student Council
Imagine 317 boxes of cereal carried into our building-in-progress by the Student Council of Holy Family Parish School. Sixteen students, six adults and associate pastor Fr. Peter Patrick toured 2461 W. Center St. on January 31, 2018. They shared the cereal they collected for us, got inspired by our Vision and became part of the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary family. The event was orchestrated by Teachers Jill and Steve Haberman.
Amazing Anita Baugh
Amazing story, powerful speaking by heroic Anita Baugh. Her topic, "How I Overcame Homelessness." She was joined by 55 sophomores and 30 junior and senior peer leaders from St. Anthony on the Lake parish.
nita and also dedicated volunteer Tom Bohmann represented the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary during the youths' one-day retreat at Camp Whitcomb/Mason in Hartland on January 28, 2018.
Also shown with Anita: Youth Minister Cindi Petre and Amanda Maaser.
nita and also dedicated volunteer Tom Bohmann represented the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary during the youths' one-day retreat at Camp Whitcomb/Mason in Hartland on January 28, 2018.
Also shown with Anita: Youth Minister Cindi Petre and Amanda Maaser.
Holy Family Tour
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Bitter cold did not keep them away on Monday morning, January 15.
The teachers from Holy Family School (Whitefish Bay) came to tour and bring a blessing to the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary (under construction) at 2461 W. Center St. and learn about our Vision. They brought bag lunches for our Doorway Ministry. Students decorated the bags with artwork and uplifting messages. Thanks to Jill and Steve Haberman who coordinated the visit. |
Breakfast with Santa benefit
Shorewood's Corner Bakery Cafe chose the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary as its featured charity for its "Breakfast with Santa" event on December 9th to our joy.
Our Board member Sonya Lee Ball (r) is shown with Cafe Manager Chris and a very jolly St. Nicholas.
Our Board member Sonya Lee Ball (r) is shown with Cafe Manager Chris and a very jolly St. Nicholas.
Coffee House benefit Living Activism Event
Photo credits to Laura Molleson and Sheila Semrou
MBHS Benefit at The Coffee House
Sunday, November 12, 7-9pm (doors open at 6:30pm, program 7-9pm)
Milwaukee High School of the Arts Crimson Star singers, songwriters, and spoken word poets will be the featured performers at the Coffeehouse Living Activism series on Sunday, November 12th. Proceeds will support the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary. Come hear these bright, young rising stars!
Download the Flyer with all the details here.
Milwaukee High School of the Arts Crimson Star singers, songwriters, and spoken word poets will be the featured performers at the Coffeehouse Living Activism series on Sunday, November 12th. Proceeds will support the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary. Come hear these bright, young rising stars!
Download the Flyer with all the details here.
Watch Sister MacCanon speak about the mission of the annual 4th of July picnic
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The annual 4th of July picnic was held at the new site on 24th and Center this year. Volunteers work hard to make the all-day picnic a success. We sincerely hope you enjoy seeing these photos and thank you for your continued support.
Neighborhood event
We are very encouraged by a meeting held April 12th so neighborhood residents could learn about plans for the building at 2461 W. Center St. recently purchased by our MBHS organization and ask questions. We leafleted 120 flyers door-to-door and sent out postcards to 40 neighborhood churches beforehand. Alderman Russell Stamper II co-hosted the event with us. It was all positive. Shown (left to right) in first row are Jonathon Groves, Sister MacCanon Brown and Nathaniel Blake; in second row (l to r):Connie Moorer, Eddie Kentle, Clare Peiffer, Marianne Miller, Pastor Harden, Beverly Bell-Ragland, Percyellious Blake, Alderman Stamper and Anthony Carter. Photo by Benita Raney.
Musical Infusion of Hope
Songs for the Soul: Finding Wisdom and Peace in struggle
One year Anniversary Celebration
Friday, July 15, 2016 was the one year anniversary celebration of the meal program/weekly resource fair organized by the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary. A total of 68 certificates of appreciation were presented to meal program volunteers and also representatives of 15 social service agencies; and 2 employees. Special thanks was expressed to the Pastor and Church Council of Hephatha Lutheran Church for their hospitality to MBHS to do outreach in their facility.
Annual Fourth of July Picnic
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Picnic for the homeless held at Pere Marquette park (TMJ 4)
Dozens of volunteers spent their afternoon helping Milwaukee's homeless population at Pere Marquette park. |
Milwaukee's Homeless Invited To Independence Day Picnic (CBS 58)
While many celebrate July 4th with a cookout for family and friends, one organization is hosting a party for Milwaukee's homeless population. It happened Monday at Pere Marquette Park on North Plankinton Ave. Organizers say anyone with "no place to go" are welcome to mark the holiday at the park and eat a hot meal, pick up a new t-shirt and mingle with others.
This is the third year for the event, organized by Sister MacCanon Brown of the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary. She says to put the picnic together takes months of planning and costs upwards of $3000, which is raised through fundraising efforts throughout the year.
She says its hosted on July 4th so that every American, regardless of their situation, can be grateful to live in this country.
"It's important for people to think about the others in America who are not so fortunate on this day," she said. "They need to be welcomed to the table too. It's their America, too. We're honored to be a part of that."
In past years turnout has been about 200 people. Organizers say they expect an even higher turnout by the end of the day.
While many celebrate July 4th with a cookout for family and friends, one organization is hosting a party for Milwaukee's homeless population. It happened Monday at Pere Marquette Park on North Plankinton Ave. Organizers say anyone with "no place to go" are welcome to mark the holiday at the park and eat a hot meal, pick up a new t-shirt and mingle with others.
This is the third year for the event, organized by Sister MacCanon Brown of the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary. She says to put the picnic together takes months of planning and costs upwards of $3000, which is raised through fundraising efforts throughout the year.
She says its hosted on July 4th so that every American, regardless of their situation, can be grateful to live in this country.
"It's important for people to think about the others in America who are not so fortunate on this day," she said. "They need to be welcomed to the table too. It's their America, too. We're honored to be a part of that."
In past years turnout has been about 200 people. Organizers say they expect an even higher turnout by the end of the day.
‘Peaceful Picnic’ welcomes homeless to celebrate 4th of July at Pere Marquette Park (FOX 6)
While many will fire up the grill on the 4th of July, others in the Milwaukee area are not as fortunate. But thanks to a local organization, they had just as much of a fun-filled holiday.
Those who are homeless got the chance to celebrate at what is called the "Peaceful Picnic" at Pere Marquette Park -- thanks to the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary. They enjoyed a free meal and a positive family atmosphere that included entertainment, games with prizes and even activities for children.
"They are happy they have someone who cares for them," said Bertha Brown, one of those who attended the event.
"With this kind of celebration of America, who is at the table? Everyone should be at the table," said Sr. MacCanon Brown.
Monday's celebration welcomed anyone with nowhere else to go.
While many will fire up the grill on the 4th of July, others in the Milwaukee area are not as fortunate. But thanks to a local organization, they had just as much of a fun-filled holiday.
Those who are homeless got the chance to celebrate at what is called the "Peaceful Picnic" at Pere Marquette Park -- thanks to the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary. They enjoyed a free meal and a positive family atmosphere that included entertainment, games with prizes and even activities for children.
"They are happy they have someone who cares for them," said Bertha Brown, one of those who attended the event.
"With this kind of celebration of America, who is at the table? Everyone should be at the table," said Sr. MacCanon Brown.
Monday's celebration welcomed anyone with nowhere else to go.
Weekly resource fair haircuts
On March 11, 2016, students from MATC Barber/Cosmetology School led by Instructor Julie Stubenrauch
provided free haircuts during the MBHS Sanctuary weekly resource fair.
provided free haircuts during the MBHS Sanctuary weekly resource fair.
Footwashing service at St. Anthony of the Lake
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Two dedicated MBHS volunteers participated in the Maunday Thursday footwashing service at St. Anthony of the Lake (SAOL) Catholic Parish in Pewaukee.
Shown having their feet washed by two deacons are Herman and Stephanie. Then Herman and Stephanie washed the feet of several parishioners. MBHS is one of SAOL's Partners in Mercy focus ministries. |
Frogwater and friends
The good times rolled and the talent was extraordinary. Thank you to all who joined us on March 12, 2016 for an evening of Irish Music.
Roots, jazz, blues and hope
get your blues on with mbhs
July 4th peaceful picnic for the homeless
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The MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary, Inc. (MBHS) organization hosted their second annual all-day event for persons and families with no place to go on Saturday, July 4th, 2015 from 9 am – 4:00 pm. This event was held at Pere Marquette Park and 200 homeless people attended. A picnic meal was served to many. Fresh produce, canned goods, and an abundance of good used clothing were distributed. Grateful thanks to the 28 volunteers and 6 people providing outreach and entertainment. |
University School of Milwaukee students aim to provide 60 mattresses to homeless shelter
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A group of 11 freshman students at USM are working to raise $3,000 to buy 60 mattresses for an "emergency warming room" at MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary. Students provided the first mattress last week for their "Mattresses for Milwaukee" service project.
The MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary is mainly a daytime refuge and resource center, but during the winter, it will become a 24-hour "emergency warming room" when temperatures are life-threatening and traditional overnight shelters are full. The sanctuary is temporarily operating out of a church at 18th and Locust streets but is raising funds to purchase a building at 24th and Center streets. |
Dream Big Dreams
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On Monday, June 1, Sr. MacCanon Brown (SFCC) represented the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary on a panel at the Avalon Theatre in Bay View. The panel discussion followed the showing of the PBS documentary titled "Dream Big Dreams" focused on the contributions of Milwaukee's legendary civil rights activist Vel Phillips.
Panelists addressed the relationship of civil rights narratives of Bay View, of Milwaukee, and of Wisconsin to the national scene. The event was a collaborative effort of Bay View Historical Society, Wisconsin Public Television and UW-Milwaukee. It combined the dedication of the recently renovated theatre with the showing of the PBS documentary. |
Stewardship of the Moment, Movement and Momentum for Milwaukee's Black Boys and Men
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Sr. MacCanon Brown (SFCC) attended the May 7 seminar titled "Stewardship of the Moment, Movement and Momentum for Milwaukee's Black Boys and Men" representing MBHS. Shown with her is seminar leader Eric Grimes. Eric has had an impact across the US engaging in action, advocacy, knowledge development, and training to authentically and accurately articulate black male experiences in an effort to empower young black men and boys, as well as those who work with or on behalf of them. He is especially known for his leadership in Black Male Achievement in Philadelphia. Attendees all left very motivated, according to MacCanon.
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MacCanon Brown on Our Issues Milwaukee
Sr. MacCanon Brown (SFCC), President of the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary talked to host Andrea Williams about the services they provide to the city's homeless population.
53206: Home in the Heart of the City
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This photo of Barbara J. Miner and Sr. MacCanon Brown (SFCC) was taken April 18, 2015 at an event held at GALLERY NIGHT & DAY which was sponsored by ACLU of Wisconsin. The exhibit titled "53206: Home in the Heart of the City" was a sharing of stories and photos from Barbara Miner's investigative journey covering 53206. Milwaukee Magazine's February, 2015 issue featured Barbara Miner's article "A Dream Deferred" (the title of a poem by Langston Hughes) focused on the Milwaukee neighborhood with the 53206 zipcode. This area is where the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary organization is preparing to establish a daytime homeless sanctuary and multi-resource center.
Photo was taken by Sheila Semrou, MBHS volunteer and homeless advocate. |
Marquette University Midnight Run volunteers tour building
Shown with Sr. MacCanon Brown (SFCC) are eighteen Marquette University Midnight Run volunteers who toured our building of interest at 2461 W. Center on April 13. Gerry Fischer, Associate Director of Campus Ministries is in second row, last person on right. Not shown is Art Montgomery, dedicated volunteer with MBHS, who took photo.
Milwaukee Police Academy Outreach
On March 30, Sr. MacCanon Brown (SFCC) presented with several other community members to more than 80 law enforcement officers. The presentations were for a police training session at the Milwaukee Police Academy focused on police interaction with homeless individuals, including the mentally ill.
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Shown in the pictures are Sr. MacCanon Brown (SFCC), President of the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary (MBHS) organization; Raymond Woods, formerly homeless inspirational speaker; Lt. Karen Dubis, Leader of both the Homeless Outreach (HOT) and Crisis Intervention (CIT)Teams; Sheila Semrou, MBHS volunteer and homeless advocate; and Chad Stiles, co-coordinator of CIT.
Bottle Sharing is Caring
Sheila Semrou hosted a fun event on Sunday, January 11, 2015, at Sugar Maple in Bay View. Together they created community by sharing craft beer, where proceeds went directly to MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary, Inc. (M.B.H.S.).
Report on July 4th peaceful picnic for the homeless
The MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary, Inc. (M.B.H.S.) organization hosted an all-day event for persons and families with no place to go on Friday, July 4th, 2014, from 9 am – 4:00 pm.
This event was held at Pere Marquette Park. A picnic meal was served to approximately 200 people. Loaves of bread and an abundance of good used clothing were distributed. There were live performances by musicians; chess, dominoes and spades tournaments with prizes; and intergenerational games and peacemaking activities. Community Advocates provided balloons.
C.J. Brown III of the VEA Center provided veterans’ outreach. Steve Ohly of Aurora offered healthcare outreach. Spiritual support and one-on-one prayer support was offered by Matters of the Heart Ministries.
Providing security for the event were a team of formerly homeless individuals and veterans from Vets Place Central. There were no incidents.
Sponsors included St. Benedict the Moor Parish, Imperial Beverage Company, St. Francis Borgia Inner-City Ministries Team, Derzon Coins, Michael Family Restaurant, Stone Creek Coffee, The Gathering, and Feed My Sheep. Also helping make this event possible were several individual donors who supported the event with either financial or in-kind donations. Approximately 25 volunteers assisted with the event.
Guests in attendance at the event expressed their appreciation.
Providing security for the event were a team of formerly homeless individuals and veterans from Vets Place Central. There were no incidents.
Sponsors included St. Benedict the Moor Parish, Imperial Beverage Company, St. Francis Borgia Inner-City Ministries Team, Derzon Coins, Michael Family Restaurant, Stone Creek Coffee, The Gathering, and Feed My Sheep. Also helping make this event possible were several individual donors who supported the event with either financial or in-kind donations. Approximately 25 volunteers assisted with the event.
Guests in attendance at the event expressed their appreciation.