Butch McCartney
Tuesday night, in 35-degree weather, members and friends of the Habitat for Humanity chapter at UW-Eau Claire met to raise awareness for homelessness nationwide.
Shantytown, the name given to the rally, is a part of Habitat for Humanity at UW-Eau Claire since its beginnings in the early 90s, senior Jodi Donovan, an officer for the organization, said.
The event began as a kick-off event for the group and has become an ongoing tradition, Donovan said.
This year’s Shantytown was different from those in previous years.
A band provided entertainment for participants and there was time for devotionals and stories. Warmth was provided by a fire, hot chocolate and hot cider.
Last year students slept outside for the rally, but this year Shantytown only lasted from 8 p.m. to midnight.
“We’re more focused based for the four hours this year,” senior and officer Shasta Paukner said.
The organization’s rally in the cold will hopefully send a message to those who could not attend. Junior Kristy Kutchenriter, an officer, said the rally should open people’s eyes to the problem of homelessness.
A committee of Habitat members organized the event. Freshmen Julie White and Erica Bathke, both new members, helped in planning the event, recruiting people and setting up for the rally.
Habitat for Humanity organizes several other events throughout the year. The building of homes around the city is the club’s main activity.
“It is a great way to help out the community,” Donovan said.
Building takes place every Saturday and is done with members of the Chippewa Valley chapter of Habitat for Humanity. The families that will live in these homes also help with some of the work.
“They are not charity houses,” Donovan said.
Senior Heather Janes, a second-year member, is involved in the building of homes as well as many other activities.
It is important to raise awareness about those without proper housing, she said.
Students interested in working with Habitat for Humanity can contact Kutchenriter at [email protected].
