Fr. Gene Jakubek
Founder of Father Gene's Help Center
Fr. Gene Jakubek
Fr. Gene Jakubek at his ordination
Fr. Gene & Mother Teresa
A shared calling of compassion and service
Fr. Gene with Mother Teresa
Our History
From humble beginnings to a cornerstone of the Milwaukee community.
Early Days
A Seed of Compassion
Fr. Gene Jakubek founded Father Gene's Help Center in 1969. The idea originated when a group of individuals volunteering at a nursing home realized a lonely elderly woman needed a sufficient bathrobe. Struck by the fact she was unable to provide her own, they began asking friends and family for donations. A chain reaction of giving began, and soon they had multiple bags of clothing for the less-fortunate. With the addition of more volunteers and the guidance of Fr. Gene, Father Gene's Help Center was incorporated as a tax-exempt, charitable organization and relocated to the center's current location.
Fr. Gene's Legacy
"The Answer Is Love"
In addition to his work supporting the material needs of the most vulnerable in the Milwaukee community, Fr. Gene was also a well-known public speaker, recognized for his television program, "The Answer Is Love."
Growing Roots
Community Embrace
Word spread throughout the Greater Milwaukee Area. Donations poured in and a growing network of volunteers helped us expand our reach.
Expanding Impact
More Families Served
We expanded our capacity to serve more individuals and families, refining our intake and distribution processes to treat every visitor with dignity.
Today
A Vital Community Anchor
Father Gene's Help Center stands as a trusted resource in Milwaukee — grassroots in spirit, powerful in impact, and driven by love for our neighbors.