At Trinity Health System, our faith-inspired mission calls us to look beyond clinical care and embrace the total well-being of the people we serve—body, mind, and spirit. Healing begins with human connection, and no one embodies that spirit of humankindness better than our community partners.

On a recent episode of Trinity Talk, host Pete Fernbaugh sat down with Rev. Dr. Kimberly Arbaugh, Executive Director of Urban Mission Ministries, to discuss the profound impact of community partnerships, human dignity, and what it truly means to serve our neighbors in the Ohio Valley.

A Heritage Rooted in Compassion

Founded in 1959 by the United Methodist Church, Urban Mission Ministries began as a humble hostel for local steel mill workers. It was a place where “the coffee was always on,” offering physical warmth and human fellowship to hard-working men in Steubenville.

Over six decades later, the industrial landscape of the region has shifted, but the mission’s commitment to hospitality remains unchanged.

“As the needs of the community have changed, we’ve changed,” shares Rev. Dr. Arbaugh. “We are working to get back to the basics of who we are… bringing people transformation, preserving dignity, and showing the love of Christ.”

Preserving Dignity Through Choice and Connection

One of the most inspiring evolutions at the Urban Mission is its transition from a traditional food pantry to the Fresh Choice Market. Rather than receiving a pre-packed bag, community members are welcomed into a grocery-style environment where they select their own food items.

This simple shift preserves individual autonomy and human dignity. As Rev. Dr. Arbaugh notes, most families are just “one bad day away” from needing support. Removing barriers and honoring choices helps neighbors feel respected rather than judged.

Beyond food security, the Urban Mission acts as a “third space”—a place of safety and belonging:

• Unity Kitchen: Serves over 350 hot meals each month alongside fellowship and devotions.

• Hygiene Kits & Clothing Vouchers: Distributes essential toiletries and clothing redeemable at their local thrift store.

• The Joshua Program: Engages visiting youth groups during the summer to perform home repairs for elderly and disabled residents.

Partnering for Total Health: Cancer Screenings & Preventative Care

Health equity requires meeting people where they are. During Minority Health Month in April, Trinity Health System partners directly with Urban Mission Ministries to break down financial and logistical barriers to essential care.

Through this collaboration, we were able to provide:

• 27 free mammograms for local women.

• 22 free prostate cancer screenings.

In addition, Trinity Health System provides ongoing grant support for the Mission’s holiday food programs and pantry initiatives, ensuring our neighbors have access to nutritious produce and vital health resources year-round.

How You Can Get Involved

It takes an entire community working together in unity to bring healing and light to those in need. Whether through volunteering, financial support, or simply spreading kindness, everyone has a part to play:

• Volunteer Your Time: Urban Mission relies on over 950 volunteer hours every month.
• Donate Essential Items: High-need items include basic hygiene supplies (soap, toothpaste, deodorant) and gently used clothing.
• Connect & Visit: Schedule a tour or grab a hot cup of coffee at the Urban Mission at 236 North 7th Street in Steubenville.

Watch the Full Episode:

Catch the entire Trinity Talk conversation between Pete Fernbaugh and Rev. Dr. Kimberly Arbaugh on Trinity Talk Episode 25 on YouTube.