Jacksonville, FL — Conversations on a Bench is more than a storytelling initiative—it’s becoming a national movement to rehumanize those too often unseen. Each bench becomes a stage for real stories of resilience, pain, and hope. Every conversation shifts public perception, sparks collaboration, and restores dignity. This growing initiative, led by City Rescue Mission (CRM) in partnership with Citygate Network, now unites over 70 life-transformation missions and community partners nationwide—all working together to rewrite the narrative around homelessness, one conversation at a time. Following the initial announcement, CRM CEO Paul Stasi has personally committed to sitting on a bench for 24 straight hours—from 3 p.m. on October 9 to 3 p.m. on October 10—while livestreaming authentic, unfiltered conversations on YouTube. The bench, located at 234 West State Street, will serve as a platform for honest, heart-level dialogue about homelessness, addiction, and mental health. “Here in Jacksonville, it’s time we really talk about issues of homelessness, addiction, and mental health,” said Stasi. “This national 24-hour event, led by Citygate Network, is an opportunity to put these issues front and center. I invite anyone—community leaders, Mission guests, or the general public—to come and talk with me. Let’s ask the tough questions, share the real stories, and start finding real solutions together.” Participants can stop by the bench in person or submit questions live via YouTube (@CRMJAX1946). The event will also be shared across CRM’s Facebook (@City Rescue Mission) and Instagram (@Cityrescuemissionjax) pages, allowing the community to join the conversation from anywhere. A Call to Community and Compassion Through Conversations on a Bench, CRM aims to spark authentic dialogue that leads to collective responsibility and renewed compassion for those experiencing homelessness. Stasi emphasized that every story shared helps remind the community that homelessness is not a label—it’s a story still being written. “Solving the issues of homelessness, addiction, and mental health can feel overwhelming,” Stasi added. “But when we sit down, listen, and learn from one another, we discover that hope is closer than we think. Together, we can break down barriers and spark transformation—because real change begins with real conversation.”
About City Rescue Mission
Founded in 1946, City Rescue Mission is a Christ-centered ministry providing homeless men, women, and families with shelter, meals, clothing, spiritual guidance, and case management in a safe and caring environment. The Mission’s programs focus on transforming lives through the healing power of the Holy Spirit, offering pathways to stability, dignity, and independence.
About Citygate Network
As North America’s largest association of independent, faith-based ministries, Citygate Network represents a unified movement of rescue missions, addiction recovery centers, prison outreach programs, and life-transformation initiatives working to address homelessness and its root causes. The network equips ministry leaders and frontline teams with community, resources, advocacy, and best practices—empowering them to respond with excellence and compassion. By connecting shelters, recovery programs, and outreach efforts, the organization fosters shared strategies that guide individuals from crisis to stability and lasting flourishing. To join the livestream or learn more, visit: YouTube: @CRMJAX1946 Facebook: City Rescue Mission Instagram: cityrescuemissionjax