The 3rd annual Cardboard City will be happening in Manitowoc this weekend. Michael Etheridge, Executive Director of The Haven Men’s Homeless Shelter, said on the WCUB Breakfast Club earlier this week, the effort began through Habitat for Humanity and First Lutheran Church in earlier years. But, he explains it’s become a collaboration of agencies in the last few years. He explained that the event is less about making money for the organizations, and more about “bringing awareness and bringing social connections with the community” about the homeless problem.
Cardboard City has a new location this year, outside First Presbyterian Church at 502 North 8th Street. Lillian Lamoreux, who heads Hope-House, talked about “rental costs” and levels of participation in the event. She explained that those who raise $100 will be able to build their own cardboard “home”, while a tent will cost $175, and those who wish to stay in their car will have to pay $250 per group.
Etheridge says Cardboard City will get underway late Saturday afternoon at 5:30. Each of the supporting organizations will have a speaker talk to the group, which Ethridge said “should be powerful” due to their connection to the homeless programs. Then, they’ll be eating chicken noodle soup and peanut butter & jelly sandwiches playing games and having fun, all to help us become more aware of homelessness in our society, both near and far.
One young lady, who has pre-registered, has raised $500 for the cause! People can still register and “pay their rent” on Saturday afternoon beginning about 3:30. For more information, you can call 652-9110.
Michael Etheridge was also a guest on the Hello Lakeshore podcast where he talked about The Haven and Cardboard City. To hear the podcast CLICK HERE
