102815-fp-middle-pix-Supervisor Romo West Host “Sleepover Saturday” at Clarke Square

Milwaukee – Milwaukee County Supervisor Peggy Romo West and other local groups drew attention to the issue of homelessness in Milwaukee County and the need for County funding for the homeless shelter system by spending the night in Clarke Square Park on Saturday, October 24 until 10 a.m. on Sunday, October 25. The event was called “Sleepover Saturday.”

Community groups built a tent/cardboard box city to draw attention to homelessness in Milwaukee County and to appeal for funding in the County budget for homeless shelters. They also collected warm clothing and washcloths for the homeless and served hot coffee and soup to those in need.

“This is something we should all be mindful of. Winter is a terrible time to be homeless in Wisconsin. We are willing to sleep outside to draw attention to the problem of homelessness,” said Romo West.

The event was co-sponsored by the Milwaukee County Shelter Task Force. Sponsors are seeking $300,000 in support for their initiative in the 2016 County budget.

“Ending homelessness in Milwaukee County will be a community-wide effort, and I’m hopeful that this particular community effort will be a success, not only in drawing attention to the problem, but in helping to clothe and feed the homeless,” Romo West said.