Free Christmas Eve meals provided to those who need them by Capuchin Community Services

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Capuchin Community Services, who provides food, shelter, and other vital services to people who need them in Milwaukee, gave out free meals on Christmas Eve. 

From 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., people were able to eat roast beef, mashed potatoes, vegetables and a festive dessert by just walking through the doors of St. Ben's Community Meal on State Street. 

“We’ve been doing this for over 54 years," said Kenny Howard, the assistant director of Capuchin Community Services. “We want everyone to know that they’re loved here at Capuchin Community Services, because it’s important to know that each individual is cared for."

Over 50 volunteers served over 200 plates to unhoused people and others in need in the Milwaukee area. Angie Miranda Leon attended the lunch gathering and said the organization helped her find housing this past year. 

"Last year, I was sleeping in the park," Miranda Leon said. “I was crying all the time; I was always alone. Now I’m at peace because of them."

Brother Henryk Cisowski, the director of Capuchin Community Services, says the organization spreads their faith through their ways of helping others. 

"We don’t preach much, we preach with our actions," Cisowski said. “It’s not only about food, but about community.”

Since 1970, rotating sponsor groups prepare fresh meals five nights a week, and a weekly takeaway meal at St. Ben's Community Meal. They also help people stay clean by providing hot showers, laundry services and a barber shop.

You can find ways to support Capuchin Community Services and their mission through their website.