Chippewa Valley Street Ministry Notes
March 18, 2026
We have had some busy evenings while we've been out since our last journal. We've provided for needs, met new people, and have encountered spring-like weather, only to return to wet and cold weather. We've learned over the years not to fall for Fool's Spring and leave our winter gear in the van and available until the threat of cold weather is gone.
This person arrived with one shoe and declined any shoes from us.
It was drizzling out this evening..
We're observing what appears to be an increase in the number of people exhibiting mental illness symptoms over the last few months. We're not sure what contributes to the cycles of what we see, if anything, but there certainly seems to be periods when we see more people struggling than not. We encourage safety, but conversations can be challenging when it's unclear what someone is perceiving or understanding. The symptoms increase a person's vulnerability as they navigate not just how to get from place to place but to get their basic needs met in a safe and appropriate manner. .
This person found a unique way to carry water bottles.
The unhoused in our community routinely face uncertainties. For instance, one day last week was in the 50°-60° range, and this week's winter storm arrived. Some people cannot stay at the shelter, so they need to find a safe place to get out of the weather. Safety, in general, is an uncertainty, and this is especially true for women and those with health and/or mobility issues. It takes skill, perseverance, and knowledge of resources to continue moving forward.
Thank you for your support of the street ministry and the people we serve. We appreciate you!
Thank you for your support of the street ministry and the people we serve. We appreciate you!
Blessings,
CVSM Staff
Something to think about as we enter Easter ....
..By North American standards, Jesus could be considered neither a successful person, nor could he be considered morally respectable.
He identified with the prostitutes and drunkards, the unemployed and the poor, not because he felt sorry for them, but in order to reveal God's judgment against social and religious structures that oppress the weak. Jesus was born like the poor, he lived with them, and on the cross he died like them.
..By North American standards, Jesus could be considered neither a successful person, nor could he be considered morally respectable.
He identified with the prostitutes and drunkards, the unemployed and the poor, not because he felt sorry for them, but in order to reveal God's judgment against social and religious structures that oppress the weak. Jesus was born like the poor, he lived with them, and on the cross he died like them.
James H. Cone - Theologian
