Meet L Street regular balloon-art maker
Recently, church member Mark Newby met L Street’s best known balloon-art maker, professional clown, and fierce advocate for accessibility rights, Shawn. As someone who regularly serves at L Street in Brockton, Mark has made lasting friendships with regulars at L Street, and Shawn is no exception. Many people might think L Street is only for people who do not have a home, but that is not the case! Mark’s story highlights Shawn’s path, but also reminds us that L Street serves more than Brockton’s unhoused population, it is open to anyone who needs a meal, and if you’re lucky enough to meet Shawn, a balloon animal and a smile!
I would like to introduce you to my new friend Shawn. I met Shawn on Saturday morning in the dining area at L Street while he was making balloon figures for two young girls. The smile he brought to their faces lifted my spirit on that rainy day. I knew I had to sit down and talk with him.
Shawn is an amazing individual that grew up in Brockton. He ended up on the streets after a series of tragic events that happened within a short time span. The good news is that since January he has been living in subsidized housing only a few blocks from L Street.
Shawn was proud to tell me he has volunteered helping others most of his life. As a 10 year old in a wheelchair he fought for handicapped access in the old Boston Garden in 1985. He help persuade them to make some accommodations five years before the ADA was signed into law.
He has volunteered over the years with many organizations including with the police Child ID program, with The Shriners who gave him the opportunity to go to clown school and at the Community Court Program assisting people on the street to find programs to help meet their needs.
Shawn is a regular at L Street and enjoys having a place go on Saturdays to be with others and receive a meal. He is now giving back to the L Street community by offering art lessons one day a week. He says creating art helps relieve stress.
When you come by to volunteer on a Saturday introduce yourself to Shawn. He might twist you up a personalized ballon creation that will make you smile.
-Mark Newby, August 2026
Registrations open today for UCC Norwell’s Weekend of Service! Sign up on Church Center to serve at L Street Mission on October 17.