Continuing the Conversation

Last week, our Interim Executive Director Erin Holcomb sat on a bench for 24 hours outside of our Burnside Shelter in recognition of World Homeless Day. Throughout those 24 hours, Erin invited people to sit with her and have honest conversations about homelessness, addiction, trauma, and the transformative hope we have in Jesus Christ.

Erin was joined on the bench by PRM staff, alumni, volunteers, and community members, including Mayor Keith Wilson and Police Chief Bob Day. What began as a simple place to sit became a space for honesty, openness, listening, and connection, and a reminder that hope is never truly lost.

Each person who stopped by brought a different perspective and story to the conversation. Some shared from personal experience, while others came to listen, ask questions, or simply spend time alongside members of our community. Together, these conversations reflected something we believe deeply at Portland Rescue Mission: meaningful change begins when we take the time to see, hear, and walk alongside one another.

Homelessness is complex, and there are no simple answers. Behind every circumstance is a person with a story, dignity, and a need for hope. For 24 hours, the bench offered a small but meaningful opportunity to slow down and make room for those stories.

World Homeless Day may have brought these conversations together, but they will continue beyond the 24 hours. Every day, Portland Rescue Mission has the privilege of walking alongside people experiencing homelessness and addiction as they take steps toward stability, recovery, and a new future.

And through it all, we hold onto the hope at the heart of our mission: that no life is beyond transformation and that lasting hope can be found in Jesus Christ.

Want to hear some of these conversations? Click the button below to view the full stream.