Mayor Cavalier Johnson Moves Up Volunteer Plans to Serve Milwaukee Neighbors Now as Summer Hunger Needs Rise
MILWAUKEE, WI — August 24, 2026 — The Gathering is proud to welcome Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson back to serve meals to Milwaukee neighbors on Wednesday, August 26, at Running Rebels—a visit that comes sooner than originally planned after the Mayor heard firsthand about the sharp increase in meals being served and the growing need for volunteers across Milwaukee this summer.
Mayor Johnson had hoped to return to The Gathering during the holiday season, continuing a tradition of service during a time when community needs are often especially visible. But after learning about the significant increase in demand for meals this summer—and the critical shortage of volunteers needed to meet that demand—he quickly decided that now is the time to serve.
This will mark the third time Mayor Johnson has served alongside The Gathering. His relationship with The Gathering dates back to the beginning of his administration: one of his first official acts after taking office was volunteering at The Gathering, demonstrating his commitment to serving Milwaukee residents and understanding the needs of the community firsthand.
This summer, that need has become increasingly urgent. The Gathering has experienced a substantial rise in the number of meals being served as more Milwaukee neighbors turn to community meal programs for support. At the same time, volunteer needs have grown across all four of The Gathering’s meal sites.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Mayor Johnson back to The Gathering—and especially grateful that he heard about the need and said, ‘Why wait?’” said Lyn Hildenbrand, Executive Director of The Gathering. “He originally wanted to join us during the holiday season, but when he learned how dramatically the need for meals and volunteers has increased this summer, he made the decision to come serve now. That kind of leadership—seeing a need and stepping forward to help meet it—is exactly what our community needs.”
The Mayor’s visit comes at a critical moment. Summer has brought a growing demand for meals across Milwaukee, and The Gathering needs volunteers to keep pace. Volunteers are essential to preparing, serving and welcoming neighbors at each of The Gathering’s four meal sites throughout the week.
“We hope Mayor Johnson’s example inspires others to take a look at what is happening in our community and ask, ‘How can I help?’” Hildenbrand said. “We need volunteers now—not just during the holidays. Whether you can give a few hours one time or become a regular volunteer, your time can help ensure that a neighbor has a nutritious meal and a welcoming place to gather.”
Volunteer With The Gathering
Community members can volunteer at any of The Gathering’s four meal sites throughout the week. No special experience is required—just a willingness to show up, lend a hand and serve alongside others. Individuals, families, businesses, churches, schools and community organizations are all encouraged to participate.
Whether you volunteer once, bring a friend or become a regular volunteer, your time makes a direct difference. Every meal served takes a team, and every volunteer helps make sure our neighbors have a nutritious meal and a welcoming place to gather.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit thegatheringwis.org.
About The Gathering
The Gathering is a Milwaukee nonprofit organization dedicated to serving meals and providing hospitality, dignity, and community for neighbors experiencing hunger and homelessness. Through multiple meal sites, volunteer partnerships, and community collaborations, The Gathering serves more than 130,000 meals annually while fostering connection and hope throughout the Milwaukee area.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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