MCTS driver honored as example of compassion for helping homeless rider find shelter

When Natalie Barnes got behind the wheel of her Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus on a chilly Saturday evening, she had no idea that by the end of the night she was going to help change a man’s life; but that is what happened when she provided food to a homeless man and connected him with a place to live.

Natalie was driving the GoldLine on October 13 when Richard, a rider she has met before, got on her bus in Downtown Milwaukee. Richard rode until the end of the line at Brookfield Square Mall. During Natalie’s break, the two started talking. As they chatted, Richard said he had been homeless for the past week because the home where he was staying had been condemned. Richard asked if he could ride along for the night to stay out of the cold. Natalie said “Yes.”

“Natalie’s kindness, compassion and respect for this man in need are what MCTS Excellence is all about,” said County Executive Chris Abele. “Across Milwaukee County, employees are focusing on empowering people and strengthening community, and we are investing resources throughout the County to reduce homelessness. Natalie demonstrated what we all need to do to fight homelessness: to look out for each other, to care for each other and to work together. I’m deeply grateful for Natalie’s actions.”

As Natalie drove east picking up and dropping riders off, Richard sat silently on the bus. At Natalie’s layover at UWM, she offered to get Richard something to eat.

“At some point in our lives, everybody needs help,” Natalie said. “I wanted to do what I could to help Richard in some way.”

“Now I don’t know what to say but to say thank you,” Richard replied.

Richard said he would pay Natalie back, but she refused. Natalie was so moved by Richard’s situation she contacted a friend at Community Advocates to see what sort of help they could provide. Community Advocates was able to get Richard into a temporary shelter and they have been working with him to find permanent housing.

“I want to help you,” Natalie told him.

Helping others while on the job is not new to Natalie. She often brings extra peanut butter and jelly sandwiches when she is driving to give to riders who need something to eat. The mother of three has been driving for MCTS for two years. This is her third commendation for outstanding service.

“We were happy to welcome Richard at Autumn West Safe Haven,” said Andi Elliott, Community Advocates CEO. “Annually, our safe haven provides temporary housing and supportive services to more than 50 individuals who have experienced homelessness and want to transition into their own place to live. Autumn West Safe Haven is a lifesaver for men and women like Richard who need a safe space and support so they can put down roots and live independently.”