Engaging in Change: Join the Nationwide Conversations on a Bench for Mental Health and Homelessness

In the heart of Houston, an initiative aims to bridge the gap between stability and crisis through candid dialogue about pressing societal issues. “Conversations on a Bench,” an innovative event that encourages open discussions about mental health, homelessness, and addiction, unfolds from October 9 to 10, inviting community members to engage in meaningful exchanges. This year, the gathering will take place in person at 5803 Harrisburg Ave, led by Brandan Thomas, the CEO of Open Door Mission.

The concept is simple yet profound: participants can sit down on a bench, share their experiences, or listen to others, fostering a sense of connection and understanding in a time when isolation often prevails. Thomas emphasizes the importance of these conversations, stating, “In order to improve our city, our state, and our nation, we need to understand its people and the real challenges they face.” This sentiment resonates deeply, particularly in a landscape where economic disparities and social issues are increasingly visible.

The event, which is part of a nationwide initiative involving over 100 CEOs from faith-based missions across the U.S. and Canada, aims to create a collective dialogue about shared challenges. Each CEO, facing unique circumstances and weather in their respective cities, will sit on a bench, inviting local residents to engage in conversations that can spark ideas for change. This grassroots approach reflects a growing recognition of the power of storytelling in addressing societal issues.

“Conversations on a Bench” originated in 2017 when Thomas was seeking a way to raise awareness for the Winchester Rescue Mission in Virginia. His 24-hour sit-in transformed into a platform for sharing narratives of recovery and the systemic barriers many face, highlighting the urgent need for community engagement in discussions surrounding homelessness and poverty.

Recent data underscores the relevance of this initiative. The Kinder Institute for Urban Research’s 2025 State of Housing report reveals alarming affordability gaps in Houston, with residents facing an average shortfall of $175,967 in housing affordability. This crisis is exacerbated by rising rents, which have pushed more households into financial strain. For renters, the landscape is particularly daunting, as they bear the brunt of these economic pressures.

Homelessness remains a critical issue, with the Coalition for the Homeless reporting that 3,280 individuals were counted as homeless in the region last year, a situation further complicated by the fact that 34% of them were living on the streets without shelter. Despite efforts by city officials, including a $70 million plan announced by Mayor John Whitmire to combat street homelessness by 2026, the challenges persist. The city’s ongoing struggle to decommission encampments while new ones emerge highlights the complexity of the homelessness crisis.

However, it’s worth noting that since 2011, Houston has seen a more than 60% reduction in homelessness, a testament to the effectiveness of outreach programs and affordable housing initiatives. Yet, as “Conversations on a Bench” aims to illustrate, the dialogue surrounding these issues remains vital. Whether one has personally experienced a crisis or seeks to understand the broader social landscape, engaging in conversation is a crucial step toward fostering empathy and enacting change.

The upcoming event not only presents an opportunity for those in Houston to share their stories but also serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to address societal challenges. By participating in “Conversations on a Bench,” individuals can contribute to a narrative that prioritizes understanding and compassion in the face of adversity. For more information about Open Door Mission and how to get involved, community members are encouraged to reach out and participate in this transformative dialogue.