#United States #Colorado Springs #Homelessness #Conversations #Citygate Network

Citygate Network's 24-Hour Livestream Event

On October 9-10, Citygate Network is set to host a groundbreaking 24-hour livestream event titled Conversations on a Bench. This initiative brings together nearly 100 ministries from across the United States to engage communities directly in candid discussions centered on the often-overlooked issue of homelessness.

The concept behind Conversations on a Bench is simple yet profound: to create a space where authentic, unscripted conversations can take place. By utilizing benches as a focal point, these discussions invite participation from neighbors, civic leaders, pastors, program graduates, and community members, setting the stage for meaningful exchanges.

Addressing Homelessness Head-On

Tom De Vries, the president and CEO of Citygate Network, stresses the importance of initiating dialogue on homelessness. He states, "Most people don't know where to begin when it comes to addressing the challenges of homelessness. This event invites communities to ask questions, share concerns, and talk openly with local ministry leaders serving in the trenches every day. When we talk honestly and listen purposefully, solutions begin to emerge, and hope takes root."

Each participating ministry will livestream its unique events, rain or shine. Moreover, Citygate Network plans to provide a national broadcast that will feature both live and pre-recorded segments from thought leaders, advocates, and various ministry voices. This multifaceted approach ensures that the conversation on homelessness reaches a wider audience than ever before.

How the Event Will Unfold

The livestream will commence at 3:00 PM ET on October 9 and continue uninterrupted for 24 hours. Throughout this period, the public is encouraged to tune in, engage with the discussions, and even submit questions via an online form, facilitating greater interaction. The variety of voices featured in the broadcast aims to break down stereotypes and humanize the stories of those who face homelessness daily.

Originally launched in 2017 at a mission in Winchester, Virginia, the Conversations on a Bench initiative has expanded dramatically, becoming a national movement dedicated to delving into the root causes of homelessness while showcasing the life-changing work done by rescue missions and ministries across numerous communities.

De Vries further elaborated, "Working to solve the issues of homelessness, addiction, and mental health can feel overwhelming. But conversation is a powerful first step. Asking the tough questions, listening to real stories, and coming together as a community is how change begins."

Join the Movement

For those interested in participating in this pivotal conversation, the Citygate Network encourages everyone to visit their website at www.conversationsonabench.org. Here, you will find a complete list of participating ministries, access to the livestream, and details on how to submit questions during the broadcast. Additionally, De Vries will be hosting national segments live from the Fresno Mission, one of the Citygate Network members located in Fresno, California.

In an era where discussions surrounding homelessness are increasingly urgent and necessary, Conversations on a Bench offers a meaningful way for communities to engage and collaborate towards impactful solutions. Together, through dialogue, we can pave the way for hope and change.

About Citygate Network

Citygate Network stands as North America's largest association of independent, faith-based ministries dedicated to tackling homelessness and its core issues. With a robust network of rescue missions, addiction recovery centers, prison outreach programs, and other transformative ministries, Citygate Network supports its members with essential resources, advocacy, and training. This empowers them to deliver compassionate and effective assistance to individuals and families grappling with crisis, ultimately guiding them towards stability and wellbeing.