Expanding Care, Connection, and Dignity: A New Partnership with Street Angels in Action

At The Gathering of Southeast Wisconsin, every meal served is about more than food—it’s about community, connection, and care. And now, through a new partnership with Street Angels, that care is reaching even further.

We’re proud to share highlights from the launch of this partnership at our Running Rebels meal site—an event that brought not only warm meals, but also essential services directly to those who need them most.

Meeting Needs—Right Where People Are

Beginning April 8, 2026, Street Angels’ Showers of Hope mobile program is now available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at our meal site at Running Rebels (1300 W. Fond du Lac).

This means that alongside a hot meal, guests now have access to:

  • Private, hot showers

  • Clean clothing and towels

  • Hygiene kits

  • Nutritious bag lunches

  • A safe, welcoming environment

And perhaps most importantly—dignity, respect, and human connection.

More Than a Service—A Moment of Dignity

As you’ll see in the photos from our first event, this partnership is about more than providing resources—it’s about restoring a sense of normalcy and care.

The Showers of Hope program creates space for individuals to pause, refresh, and be seen. Whether someone is experiencing homelessness or simply lacks access to reliable facilities, this service meets a fundamental human need in a thoughtful and compassionate way.

Street Angels has been doing this vital work across Milwaukee County since 2016—building relationships, offering consistent support, and helping connect individuals to longer-term solutions.

A Shared Mission in Action

“This partnership reflects the heart of our mission—meeting people where they are with dignity and care,” said Lyn Hildenbrand, Executive Director of The Gathering. “By working alongside Street Angels, we are able to provide not only hot meals, but additional essential services that support the whole person. Together, we are creating a stronger, more connected safety net for our community.”

That spirit was evident throughout the day—volunteers, staff, and guests coming together in a shared space of care and community.

Stronger Together

By bringing together organizations with a shared commitment to service, this partnership expands access to immediate needs while also strengthening pathways to long-term stability.

Moments like these remind us that meaningful impact happens when we work together—and when we continue to show up for our community with compassion and purpose.

The Gathering of Southeast Wisconsin