Introducing the “Waterfront Token”
Waterfront Mission has launched a new initiative designed to give individuals, churches, and businesses an easier way to minister to people experiencing homelessness. The newly
introduced Waterfront Token offers a simple, tangible way to provide immediate shelter and connect someone to long-term support.
The small token can be purchased online at WaterfrontMission.org for $10, given directly to
an individual in need, and redeemed for one free night of shelter. Tokens may be used by men and women at the Mission’s Pensacola campus and by men at its Mobile campus.
An overnight stay at Waterfront Mission costs $10 and provides far more than just a place to sleep. Guests receive a safe bed, secure storage for their belongings, freshly laundered linens, two meals, access to a shower, clean clothing if needed, and the opportunity to speak with a chaplain for crisis support and guidance toward next steps. For someone living on the streets, this cost can be a barrier. First-time guests receive their first 10 consecutive nights free of charge. After those initial nights, a token can be used to cover an additional night of safe shelter. Gifting a token ensures basic needs are met for the day, provides peace of mind that your gift is useful, but most importantly, it opens the door to conversations and support that can lead to lasting change.
Who Can Share a Token?
Individuals can offer a compassionate alternative to cash when they encounter someone in
need. Churches and businesses can keep tokens on hand to connect people directly to shelter and support. Community members may also purchase tokens for the Mission’s Outreach Team to distribute. Eventually, a token will reach someone who chooses to redeem it, and that day could mark the beginning of life change.
Community Support
Local organizations have already embraced the initiative. Aaron McCurdy, Partner at McDonald Fleming and Board Member at Waterfront Mission, recently purchased tokens to keep on hand for individuals seeking help.
“Purchasing these tokens gives my family a tangible way to make a real difference. We’ve often handed out small care packages with water and snacks, but this goes further. It provides an individual experiencing homelessness with a safe place to sleep, warm meals, and compassionate support to help someone move toward stability and rebuild their life.”
How To Purchase
Waterfront Tokens can be purchased at https://waterfrontmission.org/token/ and shipped directly to your home or organization. Pickup is also available at our Pensacola and Mobile thrift stores, or you may choose to gift tokens to our Mission outreach teams at checkout. Because this is a designated purchase of services, it is not considered a tax-deductible charitable contribution.