Pearl Webster
The Green Bay Packers are honored to nominate Pearl Webster for the Inspire Change Changemaker award for her visionary work transforming a former accounting building into the Safe Shelter for families in crisis. Her life has been dedicated to the health and well-being of others, especially for the Oneida people. As of 2021, 36% of homeless families in Green Bay were Native American.
In the initial stages of her career, she stood out by leading a tuberculosis screening initiative for the Oneida community, contributing to the local elimination of a disease that had caused significant harm. She pioneered roles such as establishing a Department of Occupational Health (within the Oneida Nation for its employees) and mentoring aspiring nursing professionals at the College of Menominee Nation.
Recipient of the 2022 Northeast Wisconsin Remarkable Woman Award, Pearl established the Safe Shelter in 2021 for families in crisis to improve their housing and living situations. Safe Shelter serves both the local Oneida community and the greater Green Bay area. The shelter has a capacity of 60 residents and offers a variety of accommodations to meet the needs of its diverse population. Families stay in rooms that accommodate two to nine people, while single men and women are housed in separate dormitories when space is available.Â
The shelter's facilities are designed to promote comfort and well-being. A bright and spacious playroom provides a welcoming space for children, while a handicapped-accessible ramp ensures access for all residents. A fully equipped kitchen provides residents with the means to prepare nutritious meals. Conveniently located washers and dryers are also available for residents' use. Safe Shelter also provides mentorship and resources to help individuals end their homelessness. The shelter is located near grocery and variety stores and is also close to bus lines.