To help shift public perception of homelessness and offer unscripted moments of the human connection, Coachella Valley Rescue Mission will host a 24-hour event called “Conversations on a Bench” on October 9-10, 2025.
Executive Director Amanda Galindo will sit on a bench 24 hours livestreaming one-on-one conversations with community members, ranging from local leaders and donors to former program clients.
“Every person has a story, and every story matters, ”Galindo said. “This event invites people to see past stereotypes and engage with the reality of what it means to experience and overcome homelessness.”
The livestream will be accessible on CVRM’s Facebook page and YouTube. In addition to raising awareness, the event will also raise funds to support CVRM’s year-round programs focused on shelter, recovery, and long-term transformation.
This local effort is part of a coordinated movement, with more than 100 rescue mission CEOs participating in similar events across North America on October 9–10, 2025.
For more information, livestream access, or donation opportunities, contact Kristen Pavia at
a3BhdmlhIHwgY3ZybSAhIG9yZw==. To watch the livestream and submit questions in real time, join us on Facebook and YouTube.
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.
About CVRM
Founded in 1971, the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission provides food, clothing, and safe shelter to anyone in need. Additionally, CVRM helps people end their cycle of homelessness with extensive counseling, job training, and job placement services.
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