Milwaukee homeless organization faces criticism from Business Improvement District 21

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee has made major strides in its efforts to combat homelessness, significantly reducing the homeless population over two years.

Despite the progress, some organizations remain critical of the response and how resources are allocated.

"This is not what I look forward to, none of these guys look forward to this, but this is what we got," said Devery Shanowat.

Shanowat has been homeless on the streets of Milwaukee for nearly six months.

Shanowat lives in the shadows of Milwaukee's justice system, with at least 20 other homeless people, in MacArthur Park.

Shanowat said finding help often comes with roadblocks. "You got to have kids, you got to be a parent; you got to do all these other things to get the help here, without that you get no help."

Shanowat said he relies on the Street Angels, a local group serving people without homes.

"We get underwear, socks, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, everything, said Shanowat.

This relief is now being called into question by Downtown Business Improvement District 21, saying the Street Angels are providing "handouts versus a hand up."

"Tents don’t cause homelessness, but they do provide a little bit of dignity, protection, and warmth," said Eva Welch, executive co-director of Street Angels.

in a statement, CEO Beth Weirick said: "While there are organizations that are well-intended in providing basic needs such as tents and food, there are unintended consequences to their actions. Community resources should be focused on long-term solutions to end homelessness."

Welch said this statement shocked her.

"Until we have enough shelter and housing, there are going to be people outside, I guess the issue is are they visible or invisible."

For the people who call MacArthur Park home, they say all they have is hope and a tent.

"Any one of these guys, you ask what they are waiting on, for, I guarantee they are going to be waiting for Street Angels at nine," said Shanowat.

If you or someone you know is homeless, a resource to call is 211.

The full statement from Milwaukee Downtown Business Improvement District 21 can be found below: