News

In an effort to shift public perception around homelessness and offer raw, unscripted moments of human connection, Crossroads Mission Avenue will once again host a 24-hour event called Conversations on a Bench on October 8-9, 2026, at the Hastings Mission on 702 W 14^th Street! The initiative is part of a nationwide campaign led by Citygate Network, a faith-based association of rescue missions and life-transformation ministries across North America.

For one full day, Daniel Buller, Executive Director of Crossroads Mission Avenue, will sit on a bench livestreaming one-on-one conversations with community members – ranging from local leaders and donors to former program participants and curious passersby. The bench becomes a platform for truth-telling, healing, and hope.

Every person has a story, and every story matters! This event invites people to see past stereotypes and engage with the reality of what it means to experience – and overcome – homelessness.

We invite you and your congregation to join us and learn! Here’s how you can participate:

• HELP us by covering this event in PRAYER!
• SHARE the news! Download a flyer here
• COME tour a Mission between 10 am – 4 pm on October 8th! Choose a location from the list above! Bring a donation to make a difference: Help stock our shelves with a donation of toilet paper, paper towels, or cleaning supplies during your visit!
• WATCH the event from 2 pm Oct 8^th till 2 pm Oct 9^th! Livestream access: https://www.youtube.com/@CrossroadsMissionAvenue

The local effort is part of a coordinated movement, with more than 100 ministry CEOs participating in similar events across North America!