Almost three in ten people who live in the city of Milwaukee live in poverty, according to Census Bureau statistics published by the Hunger Task Force. The estimated poverty rate in Milwaukee is 28.7%, the poverty rate in the United States is 15.5%. (See more details here: https://www.hungertaskforce.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/QuickFacts_Feb2017.pdf)

To live in poverty, a family of four needs to make $24,600 a year or less. Those who are struggling to buy food and pay their utilities often take advantage of several meal sites and food pantries throughout the city. Ebenezer Stone Ministries, at 35th and Scott, is one location that offers free meals Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons, as well as an emergency food pantry.

On a Saturday morning visit, I spoke to one man enjoying a warm meal who shared his story with me. McKinley Cullins has had some difficulties in his life, but he isn't bitter or resentful for the circumstances. In fact, he calls himself blessed.