Waterfront Mission Cancels Conversations On A Bench As Tropical Storm Isaias Approaches Gulf Coast 

Mission Preparing to Provide Emergency Shelter and Services in Pensacola and Mobile 

Waterfront Rescue Mission has canceled its Conversations on a Bench event scheduled for October 8–9 as the Gulf Coast falls within the projected path of Tropical Storm Isaias, which could strengthen into a hurricane before making landfall. The Mission hopes to reschedule the event at a later date and will provide additional information as future plans are determined. 

The decision was made with the safety of Waterfront’s clients, staff, event guests and community partners as the top priority. Waterfront is closely monitoring the storm and coordinating with Emergency Management officials in both Pensacola and Mobile as its Missions prepare to serve an increased number of people seeking shelter from the storm. 

Waterfront anticipates serving hundreds of men and women in the coming days and is preparing its facilities and staff to ensure those seeking refuge have a safe, comfortable place to stay and, most importantly, are off the streets during dangerous weather conditions. 

Storm Shelter Information 

In the event of a hurricane or other severe weather, Waterfront Rescue Mission’s doors remain open for overnight and daytime sheltering as conditions and capacity allow. 

At the Pensacola Mission, men and women may seek shelter at no cost. For women with children who need overnight accommodations, Waterfront works with community partners to help coordinate appropriate shelter. 

At the Mobile Mission, men may stay overnight free of charge. Waterfront also works with local community partners to help secure overnight shelter accommodations for women and children. 

Waterfront plans to remain open during the day to provide shelter for men, women and children for as long as conditions and capacity safely allow. 

Community members should continue to monitor guidance from Escambia County Emergency Management and Mobile County Emergency Management for the latest storm updates, emergency shelter information and safety instructions. 

Community Donations Needed 

Those who would like to support Waterfront’s storm response are encouraged to donate items from the Mission’s Urgent Needs List or give monetarily on their website. Many of these supplies will be put to immediate use as Waterfront prepares to serve additional guests throughout the weekend. 

Donations may be dropped off at their Missions before severe weather arrives or purchased and shipped directly to Waterfront through its Amazon and Walmart registries. 

Waterfront Rescue Mission will continue monitoring conditions and will provide updates on their social media as additional information becomes available.