LATEST NEWS
Help us Feed People this Holiday Season
Help us fight the food insecurity issues in WV that have only been worsened by economic inflation. For many of us, Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to express our gratitude for the blessings in our lives. For the homeless or those dealing with food insecurity, they face a season
Trial by Fire
For the privacy of those involved, names have been changed in this story. John is 63 years old and has lived over the mountain from Union Mission in Loudendale for many years. He has been a client of the Family Services ministry and receives food boxes from the mission.
You Help Us to Stay Cool and to Look Nice
Last month we had to large AC units that services our Men’s Recovery dorms fail and need a total replacement. The best estimate we received was $16,000 to replace those units. Through a grant, we were able to acquire $5000 of the $16k needed but that left a major
Sober Living Motivates, Guides, & Encourages
Earlier this year, Union Mission announced the launch of Men’s and Women’s sober living facilities on the Brookside Campus. The purpose of this new program is to offer transition help for men and women graduating from addiction recovery programs or those needing supervised housing due to other legal circumstances.
Spring Hill Baptist Church VBS Hits a Home Run Every Year for UM
For years now, Spring Hill Baptist Church in South Charleston sets their Vacation Bible School focus on Union Mission. Regardless of their annual theme, raising money and collecting donations for food are a huge part of their activity for one week in the summer. In the past, they have
STORY OF HOPE: Feeding People is Still the Core of What We Do
In the fall of last year, the Governor’s office announced the Posey Perry Emergency Food Fund to help combat food insecurity in West Virginia. As a recent recipient of some of these funds, Union Mission is exploring ways to reach people in need in our service area. “These funds
From Jason’s Desk: An Invitation to the Churches
The Union Mission has been helping hurting West Virginians since 1911, a tradition we are proud to continue building upon over 100 years later. A huge part of that tradition is our partnership with churches and faith communities. Without the Lord’s blessing through His people’s prayer and financial support, we
Story of Hope: Preschool joins families and faith community
The Union Mission is located in a valley in Charleston’s Kanawha City area. Our thrift store, administration, addiction recovery, warehouse, and preschool facilities have been here since the 1950s when locals fondly referred to the area as Mission Hollow. Today, to reach us, you pass South Park Apartment complex. This
Fresh Eggs for Recovery?
Thanks to a recent grant awarded to Union Mission from the Pallottine Foundation, Union Mission has a renewed effort to establish our agriculture program. The funds provided by the grant will allow us to purchase most of the infrastructure we need to test 3 specific areas:
Salvation Story from the Halls of UMM
I often use this space to keep you up-to-date on Union Mission business that has made a mark on me; perhaps a new employee, upcoming event, or department success. As donors, I want each of you to understand that we use your talents and financial gifts wisely, that we value
Story of Hope: When Identity Finds You
Adopted, homeschooled, pastor’s kid ... Those are some heavy labels to carry around for a child, not to mention a teenager struggling with growing up and finding their own identity. As soon as Hope (Janae) Biram had the chance, she rebelled against every one of those labels. She moved out
Help a Child Have A Christmas Blessing
We are partnering with WCHS Tower of Toys, Greenbrier Dream Tree for Kids, and our generous supporters to host our Annual Christmas Shop. What is Christmas Shop, you ask? It is a program/drive that we hold every year to help families who are struggling to buy toys for their kids
Exciting Changes are Happening at the Union Mission Addiction Recovery Program
Exciting changes are happening at the Union Mission Addiction Recovery Program, starting with new Director Denise Kennedy. You may recognize her name, as she has been with the Union Mission since 2019 as vocational advancement coordinator in our client services department. Our recovery programs have evolved over the years into
Story of Hope: God never gives up! And neither should you!
Addiction takes everything. Family. Security, Safety. Nothing is off limits. The thing about faith-based recovery, is that in God’s hands, He gives it all back, plus some! For nearly two decades, both Chris and Ashley walked through a life of addiction and loss. They would both lose friends, family members,
Story of Hope: From Death to Life
For Kenneth Hughes, life before Christ was one horror scene after another. At ten, he witnessed his great grandmother’s murder. At 17, he went to prison and witnessed unspeakable violence. In his early 20s, his brother committed suicide and died in his arms. His mother killed herself later that day.
No Stranger to Flooding
West Virginia is no stranger to floods, and neither is the Union Mission. Historically, this organization has been on the front line of nearly every natural disaster that has hit our great state. Every time devastation occurs, I am reminded of the spirit for selfless service that we at the
Adopt-A-Family for Christmas Now Open
We are excited to announce that Adopt-a-Family applications will start throughout the month of October, Monday through Friday 9AM-3:30PM over the phone. We are currently accepting both applicants and sponsors. Adopt-a-Family is an annual program that provides Christmas gifts to people who are struggling to provide for their children. We
We Need Coats for Annual Coat Drive
Our annual Coat Drive has begun! Starting in September and running through late October, we are collecting gently used and new coats for the local community. All sizes are welcome, and children’s sizes are especially needed. If you'd like to donate coats, please bring them by the Union Mission Administration
Our Fuel Tanks Are Full!
Earlier this summer, we kicked off our 3rd annual Fuel the Mission campaign. The purpose of this campaign is to build up a restricted fund designated for fuel purchases that can last an entire year. The goal is to “Fill the Tank” in the summer and hopefully not run out
Story of Hope: How a Fixed Freezer Brings Hope!
All of the sudden, late on a Friday, the Union Mission’s huge commercial freezer stopped working, leaving 3 tons of food in danger of spoiling. This is very upsetting when it happens to a single family, but this freezer supplies food to about 160 families and 19 food pantries each
UM Fall Food Drive
Help Us Collect Canned Food for Our Fall Food Distributions In order to get a jump on the demands for food we are anticipating this fall, we are kicking off our fall food drive in August. We are in need of canned food items including corn, beans, peas,
UM Warehouse Freezer Has FAILED
Upon arriving for the morning shift at our food warehouse last week, our staff noticed the freezer was not functioning. The contents of the entire freezer, over 600 square feet full of food, had to be removed. Fortunately, none had to be thrown out since it had not defrosted
Students Helping Students Find Food
Earlier this year, we presented a story about East Bank Middle School and the issues they were facing with food insecurity for many of their students. That story generated a great deal of response from you, our faithful donors. We thought it would be advantageous to share an update
Emergency Response Team Mobilizes to Help St. Albans Family
Two years ago, we launched the Bud Young emergency Response Team to help families in rural areas dealing with hardship. We have responded to flood events, power outages, and other storm damage situations. Sometimes, however, emergencies fall on just a single family in a very unexpected way. Last month
How Teamwork Saved a Life
When you think of a homeless person, what comes to mind? Do you have an image in your head of what they look like? Do you start to assume what led to their homelessness? At the Union Mission Men’s Shelter, the men that seek our help have eclectic backgrounds.
Fuel the Mission 2024
It is that time of the year again! As summer approaches, we want to kick off our 4th annual Fuel the Mission Campaign. Last year we exceeded our goal of $35,000 dollars by over $2000. Can you help us hit our goal of $35,000 for
Lives Are Being Changed in the Addiction Recovery Program
Union Mission’s Addiction Recovery Program focuses on a 3-tier recovery model. The program addresses the mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing of each of our residents. During the first part of treatment, residents receive quality behavioral heath services, access to a full gym, and Biblical life skills classes. The men
Why are kids going hungry when there are programs available?
If you read this newsletter from front to back, then you have already encountered our cover story about East Bank Middle School. No doubt, this story has touched your heart and I hope you feel compelled to help us do something about it. The story, however, may have left
Food Insecurity vs Education
Imagine you are back in school and you are studying for the big, midterm test that will determine whether you get a passing grade in a class. You spend hours trying to understand the math problem or the chemical formula, or the historic timeline that you know is going
How We Distribute Food During December
One of the long standing traditions of Union Mission has been our annual Thanksgiving Food Distribution we do the weekend before Thanksgiving. For decades, Union Mission has provided holiday food boxes for thousands of families in the Kanawha Valley. Despite the pandemic, the distribution still managed to function each
Not All Gifts Fade Away
Have you ever purchased a Christmas gift for a family member or friend and wondered, how long will that last? Young children can test the mettle of any toy and soon wheels fall off and flashing lights quit working. Electronics become obsolete. Clothes develop holes and stains. While given
The Good News and the Bad News of Facilities Maintenance
At the beginning of September, we asked our donors to help us with an emergency concerning the HVAC systems on our administration building which also houses our Men’s Addiction Recovery program. This building, like the rest of the campus, was built back in the 1970’s when energy was cheap
UM Preschool Teaches and Trains
Many of you are aware that Union Mission has hosted a Kanawha County Preschool on our campus on South Park Road for X years now. What you may not know, however, is that our preschool has quietly gained traction and recognition in the community as a leader and innovator
Drumstick Dash 2024
The countdown to Thanksgiving has begun! It’s time to dust off those running/walking shoes! Whether you’re an experienced runner or a casual walker, you can join us for this fun-filled run/walk to “Shuffle your feet so others can eat” on the beautiful Kanawha Boulevard starting and ending at Haddad
Sometimes It Is All Fun and Games
If you happened to drive by the mission at the end of last month, you may have noticed a carnival-like atmosphere outside of our administrative building. For years, Union Mission has hosted our annual employee appreciation picnic at Kanawha State Forest in September prior to the big seasonal rush
Story of Hope: More Than a Piece of Paper
As a child, Ashley moved around frequently. She was told that many of her high school credits would not transfer when she came to WV and instead of being a junior in high school, she would have to start as a freshman. This devastated her to the point that
SIX HVAC Units Have Failed!
Our 50 plus year old campus is starting to show its age. Currently, of the 55 (yes that is correct) air conditioning units we have 6 have decided to call it quits for good. The repairs and patchwork we have been able to do the last several years have
Support Starts with Feeding People
At its core, Union Mission has been about showing people the love of Jesus Christ. As with any new relationship, we start with addressing basic human needs such as food. Our Family Services Ministry has provided food for thousands of families over the decades. We like to take a
Reaching Rural Communities
One of the key ministries of Union Mission that doesn’t get as much attention as some of the other ministries is our Outreach efforts. Obviously, homelessness, addiction, and lack of access to food isn’t just a Charleston or Kanawha Valley issue. In many cases, those issues are even more
New Distribution Center Begins Operation This Month
We announced earlier this year that Union Mission had acquired a building in Kanawha City that would serve as our new donation distribution center and a retail boutique. Progress is being made in the renovation of the building and configuring it to serve as an efficient way to sort
Introducing our New Director of Human Resources: Leonard Parker
We are excited to introduce the new Director of Human Resources, Leonard “Leon” Parker. Leon joined the team last month and we are thrilled with the experience he brings to this position. Leon is a West Virginia native raised on Campbells Creek. He has a long history of managing
The Dilemma of Digital
It appears that even though some say the pandemic is waning, we are still seeing the effects of it in our supply chain and our economy. One thing we did not anticipate at this time was the shortage of paper products. I am not referring to toilet paper or
Volunteer Spotlights
Employed, Retired, and Volunteering: Barbara Johnson-Grear Have you ever met a person that no matter what kind of mood you may be in they always are able to make your day brighter. You know, that person that always has a kind word to say or can offer encouragement
Story of Hope: Sometimes It’s Best Just to Listen
Overcoming the grip of addiction and the destructive behavior associated with it can be very difficult. The men and women in our addiction recovery put forth a conscious effort every day to walk away from that lifestyle. They have shared with us that some days are much harder than
April 20th is National Volunteer Recognition Day
You may notice that our April newsletter is a little different this time. Usually, we have a variety of stories that discuss what is happening throughout the mission’s many ministries. This month, however, we want to focus on one specific area - volunteering. Our volunteers help in literally every
Story of Hope: Day by Day with Community
How does an organization like Union Mission, who offers a comprehensive addiction recovery program, measure success? What are the marks of accomplishment or the marks of failure? If we were a for profit business that produced and sold widgets, then we could show sales reports and production costs, etc.
Fall 2021 Special Events Were a Hit!
Hello! My name is Katie Bush. I am the new special events coordinator here at Union Mission. Now that we are out of the busy holiday season, I wanted to say thank you so much to our wonderful volunteers, donors, and staff for all of YOUR help! We could
Employment and a Ministry at Union Mission
This is showing my age, but do you remember the Peace Corp commercials they would play on TV and radio? The part that always stuck in my mind was their tagline at the end of the commercial. “The Peace Corp. The toughest job you will ever love.” That statement
Union Mission Acquires Commercial Property in Kanawha City
Over the past several months, the Union Mission Board of Directors along with Jason Quintrell, President and CEO of Union Mission, have been painstakingly examining a commercial building that has been on the market for a while in eastern Kanawha City. Just last month, however, they were able to
Why We Need to Expand in 2022
So, 2022 is starting off with a bang here at Union Mission. Already we have had a staff retreat at Chief Logan Convention Center where all of our employees spent two days training, team building, and sharing stories from their departments. It was a great time of growth for
Story of Hope: When Shelter Offers a New Start
When Jonathan was released from South Central Regional Jail, he had nothing. No car, no house, no money and his family was hundreds of miles away. Fortunately, his brother travelled to Charleston to pick him up. He suggested finding a shelter to stay in until he could get things
Faithful & Fun Support From Spring Hill Baptist
For those of us who grew up in church, we most likely remember vivid details of Vacation Bible School. Gathering together with our friends, playing games and other outdoor activities in the summer heat, and hearing the great Bible stories. Ralph Green’s ministry is one that always stays in
Goliath Challenge in Mission Hollow
It takes hard work to overcome challenges in our lives. It seems the harder the challenge the harder the work has to be. Think back to the most recent obstacle you have faced and how you managed to prevail against it. Didn’t that victory taste sweet? We all face
Union Mission Thrift Store Has a New Look
If you haven’t been in the Union Mission Thrift Store post-pandemic, then you haven’t seen the renovations that have taken place. The staff and volunteers have worked tirelessly over the past several months to reorganize the store, clean it from top to bottom, and remodel key areas. With two
Story of Hope: Lincoln County
With the launching of the Bud Young Emergency Response Team earlier this year, we have had conversations with community leaders all around central West Virginia. These conversations have revealed a variety of needs specific to those communities. Earlier this summer, a conversation with some representatives with the Lincoln County
Business Partner Spotlight: Gordon Foods Gets Us Rolling
If you have been around the Charleston region for any amount of time, you probably have seen our Union Mission box trucks driving around picking up food donations from local businesses and other organizations. What you haven’t seen in the last year, however, was our large semi truck headed
Mother’s Day 2021
Growing up in the Quintrell home was interesting to say the least. The one thing I could always count on was the relationship with my mother. She was always there for me. I am not in any way saying my Father was not, but Dad worked a lot. He
Story of Hope: Shelbe
When trying to understand what leads someone down the path of addiction, usually the situation of the home life is a key factor. The clients in our addiction recovery programs have unique stories to tell but an all too common thread is the condition of their home life when
Community Spotlight: Local Church Blends Art and Fellowship with Our Recovery Clients
One of the biggest concerns with facilitating recovery efforts in our addiction recovery program is keeping the clients engaged with healthy and productive activities. These activities are critical to help keep their minds from fixating on their chemical dependencies. Unfortunately, the last year of Covid restrictions have limited access
Your Amazon Purchases Can Help Support the Mission
Did you know you can make a simple change to your Amazon account where every purchase made generates a donation in the amount 0.5% to Union Mission? It is very easy to do and it doesn’t require a new login, new passwords, or a change in your shopping settings
Volunteering at Union Mission Just Got Easier!
Now that restrictions from the pandemic are starting to lift, we are eager to accept more volunteers at Union Mission. We will still be maintaining social distancing protocols, of course. If you have never volunteered before, we have now made the signup process even easier. To become a volunteer,
Prayer Team is Growing
Last fall, we started a new group called the Union Mission Prayer Team. This group is made up of committed prayer warriors who have agreed to pray for the specific needs of the mission as well as each other. At the time of writing this article, the team has
Prayer Team Blessing
Last fall, our Development Department created a “virtual” Prayer Team. The team consists of various people across the region and across the country that have committed to praying for the needs and concerns of Union Mission. While it was slow getting started during our busy fall season and with
Redemption in Her Own Words
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. - 1 Peter 5:6-7 Many of our clients are thankful and appreciative of the time they have spent in our recovery
UM’s Emergency Response Team is Moving Forward
Last month we released a video on our website, facebook, and on our Youtube Channel documenting the needs of a family in a rural area of Paint Creek (you can still see the video here). This situation really illuminated the needs of people in the most remote areas of
LOSING A PILLAR of Union Mission
Have you ever heard the name of an organization and automatically a person’s face pops into your head? That person comes to mind because they are so integral to the organization they become the first thing of which you think. For decades, we have had that at Union Mission.
COMMUNITY Spotlight: JOE HOLLAND CHEVROLET PUTS ERT IN HIGH GEAR
Joe Holland Chevrolet has been a fixture in South Charleston for decades. Joey has been able to build his business by providing quality customer service and fair pricing on his vehicles. Joe Holland Chevrolet has partnered with Union Mission to help see our Emergency Response Team (ERT) accelerate rapidly.
STORY OF HOPE: THE HANDS AND FEET OF JESUS
On January 25th, 2021, one of our long serving board members and active volunteers for Union Mission was called home at the age of 92. Emory Young, Jr. (who everyone knew as Bud) served for 48 years on the Board of Directors for Union Mission. Bud was the epitome of
Rolling Down the Road to Recovery
We often hear from our clients that come to our addiction recovery program that their history of drug abuse has a cyclical action. They use drugs for a period, hit a low, stop using for a while, and then a circumstance draws them back to using again. It can
Adopt A Family
If your family or a family you know would like to receive gifts through our Adopt-A-Family program this year. Please read the details below: Applications are being accepted on October 6 through October 30th Applications can be completed over the phone Monday-Friday 10:00 am-3:00 pm Please have your ID number
Paying for the Mistakes of the Past
For Sabrina, addiction has darkened a long period of her life. At times she found herself in jail, or out of work, or with no place to stay. Today, however, she is celebrating a major milestone on her road to recovery. “One of the consequences of my addiction led
Community Spotlight: Experiencing a commitment to sobriety and a commitment in marriage
For over 16 years, David Sneade, Director of Union Mission’s Men’s Shelter, has been helping men hurting from homelessness and addiction. His experiences have allowed him to accumulate quite a few interesting stories. For those of you that know David, you know he is never shy about sharing them.
Union Mission’s Sustainable Agriculture Program Update
Several years ago, we launched our Sustainable Agriculture Program with the intent of feeding our clients cleaner, healthier food and reducing some of our dependence on purchased food. Over those several years, we tested raising broilers (meat chickens), pastured hogs, and a volunteer-managed garden all at our South Park
Community Spotlight: Brooks Manor Providing Food for Senior Residents
Over the past several months the Covid-19 pandemic has taught us much about the fragility of our culture and economy. It also has taught us about the resiliency of our communities and the importance of friendship. At Union Mission, the start of the quarantine revealed an immediate need for food
Caring for Staff During a Crisis
The year 2020 will forever be marked as the year of the great pandemic. We have all witnessed the immediate effects of this global crisis on our communities and businesses but longer term ramifications remain unseen. I have been asked multiple times over the last several months how we care
Domestic Mission Trips to UM are a Blessing to Everyone Involved
For 109 years, Union Mission has cared for the hurting and needy of West Virginia. Bringing hope and second chances to our fellow West Virginians has always been the goal. At times, however, Union Mission gets to experience a slight role reversal. Each summer, several mission groups from all over
Covid-19 Response – IMMEDIATE donations needed to help the elderly in our community
Union Mission is trying to serve the hurting people of West Virginia while keeping our clients and employees as safe as possible. The government order for us to all stay home is necessary but difficult. While we are still able to leave our homes to seek necessary supplies,
Union Mission Graduation
September 12th was an exciting day for the graduates from Union Mission’s Addiction Recovery Program. In front of friends, family and staff, fourteen men and women walked across the stage and accepted their diplomas. It was a time of celebration and victory for the graduates as they now have
108 YEAR Milestone
With so many things changing over the past century, it is a rare achievement for an organization to reach a 108-year milestone. As we continue today what Brother Pat Withrow began in 1911, Union Mission has striven to meet the pressing needs of those suffering. No longer is our
BUSINESS PARTNER Spotlight: Baum America
What do addiction recovery and the manufacture of plastic-lined, industrial-grade pipe have in common? Both are services in Charleston that are helping men rebuild their lives and overcome destructive behaviors.Baum American Corp is a local industrial manufacturing company in Charleston that produces specialty industrial pipe for the chemical and pharmaceuticalindustry.
Addiction Recovery Program: Kayla
I grew up with addiction in my family which made my childhood very difficult. I had experimented with drugs at the age of ten. I smoked weed which led to pills, and by the age of thirteen I had tried methamphetamine. I want parents to realize that kids can
Union Mission Preschool Completes First Year
In August 2018, Union Mission was blessed with the opportunity to collaborate with Kanawha County Schools to open a new preschool to serve the local community. “Preschool is a child’s first school experience and we have been given the unique task to set the foundation for how each child
BUSINESS PARTNER Spotlight: Ghareeb Dental Group
Ok, going to the dentist may not be at the top of your list of fun things to do. At Union Mission, however, we love to make trips to Ghareeb Dental Group. They graciously offer men and women in our addiction recovery program dental work for no charge. We
Help us build a Wellness Center!
Well, we have some great news and some not so great news. Our Wellness Center is complete and ready for our grand opening thanks to donations from business partners and individuals. That is the good news. The not so good news is our air conditioning system in that building
VOLUNTEER Spotlight: Young Professionals Group helps UM raise vegetables
Every week this summer, a group of dedicated young professionals (YP’s they call themselves) descends on the garden space at Union Mission’s Brookside Campus in Kanawha City. These eager and energetic 20 to 40 year-olds share their time and their talents to help grow food for people in need.
BUSINESS PARTNER Spotlight: Appalachian Railcar Services
What does a national railcar service company have to do with Union Mission? Surprisingly, a great deal. Kurt Higginbotham, CEO and President of Appalachian Railcar Services (ARS), explains, “ARS has been very blessed. My wife and I started the company 19 years ago with just to two of us.
Don’t forget Union Mission this summer
It’s no secret that summer is tough on Union Mission and those we serve. Donations take a dramatic decrease as compared to the rest of the year and we find ourselves struggling to meet the financial demands of running a ministry with programs that are open 24/7. As temperatures rise
Spring Hill Baptist helps the guys Sleep Better!
In last month’s newsletter, we highlighted how Spring Hill Baptist donated funds for us to buy new metal bunk beds for the men in the Addiction Recovery Program. We are excited to announce that the men have their new beds and are sleeping more soundly. With having bunk beds,
Donor Spotlight: Brett Faulknier
We have all heard the saying that if everyone that was born in West Virginia moved back to West Virginia, the state would be over-crowded. It is true many West Virginians have moved away for a variety of reasons, but some still consider West Virginia their home. This is
Union Mission/CTC Tennis Tournament and Pickleball Open House
Do you enjoy watching great tennis or want to learn how to play the fastest-growing sport in America? Here’s your chance to do both and try your hand at PICKLEBALL! Union Mission is excited to host the first Union Mission Tennis Tournament the weekend of June 21 to 23
Addiction Recovery Program: Patsy
I grew up in a big loving Italian family and was taught great morals. My parents divorced when I was twelve years old and it took a toll on me and my sister. I had a best friend and we hung out and rode fourwheelers. Although my dad told
Special Thanks to Principal Kelly Haynes
Special thanks to Principal Kelly Haynes for a wonderful evening at Lakewood Elementary School. The Family Resource Night included dinner for guests, vendors, guest speaker Jason Quintrell and support groups for the community.
Addiction Recovery Program: Renita and Katy
Renita: My name is Renita and this is my daughter Katy. I battled addiction for eleven years and to the outside world I had it all. I was a nurse, married, two children, a home and cars. My addiction to pain medication began when I was injured and had
Local Orthodontist raises food donations for Union Mission
Dr Shane Holmes and his staff at Holmes Orthodontics had a contest among patients and staff last month to raise donations of non-perishable food items for Union Mission. They were able to collect approximately 200 non-perishable food items to donate to Union Mission! We love it when local businesses
Union Mission Men’s Shelter: Eugene
I was homeless and lived out on the streets of Charleston for 5 months sleeping wherever I could. Sadly, I had to look inside of dumpsters for food and things like that. I heard about a place called Union Mission’s Crossroads Shelter and went there to get something to
Renovations are underway to accommodate residents moving to the transitional phase of the Men’s Addiction Recovery Program
A critical component of Addiction Recovery at Union Mission is the Transitional Phase. The Transitional Phase has been designed to prepare residents to become productive members of society by gradually acclimating them to a new way of life within a supportive environment. The goal is to reduce the overwhelming
2019 Women On A Mission Award Nominee
A surprise visit to Jamie Tridico to announce her nomination as a recipient of the 2019 Women On A Mission Award. All five recipients will be introduced in Union Mission’s April newsletter. The Women On A Mission luncheon will be held on May 9 from 12:00 to 1:30 PM
Mission donors step up BIG TIME!
Just yesterday, Monday, February 19th, we asked you all to help Union Mission raise $10,000 to help us replace our commercial hot water system for our main building. This system provides hot water for our largest building on campus and includes: Hot water supply for our commercial kitchen that prepares
John & Tabbi – Addiction Recovery Graduates Share Their Story
A year ago John and Tabbi were living in a car near Union Mission’s Crossroads shelter and trying to survive one of the coldest winters on record. Although they never thought they would be graduating from Union Mission’s Addiction Recovery Program, it is exactly what they did on January 10,
Al Woody Memorial Union Mission Christmas Food Drive 2018
Special thanks to WQBE, Electric 102, Fred Clark, IVS Hydro, Tudor’s Biscuit World and Gino’s Pizza and all who donated to make the food drive a great success! We appreciate you!
Addiction Recovery Program: GRADUATION
On January 10, 2019, fourteen men and women graduated from Union Mission’s Addiction Recovery Program. Attended by a host of family and friends, the ceremony commenced at Kingdom Life Fellowship Church in Nitro, West Virginia. Union Mission’s Addiction Recovery Program is a long-term faith-based program where men and women learn how to
Veterans Day Every Day
Once a year, we set aside a day to tell our military veterans, “Thank you for your service.” While many of our nation’s veterans have returned to lives of good health and full-time work, others have not fared so well. Unfortunately there are far too many veterans homeless and
Donor Spotlight:Consigning Women donates bag 3000
Bag number 3,000 was recently donated to Union Mission Thrift Store by Consigning Women’s clothing store of Cross Lanes. Since 2013 co-owners Stacey Corbin and Sandy Harper have been faithfully donating clothing from their ladies’ dress store. As items are brought to their store, the owners advise consignees that
Heath Fain
The Union Mission Board of Directors and Administration has named Heath Fain the new Vice President of Operations for Union Mission Ministries. Fain started his new role on October 1, 2018 and brings more than 20 years of experience to the mission. His past experience includes being a journeymen
My Home Town
Growing up in St. Albans, West Virginia in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, was much like what you would expect watching an episode of the Andy Griffith show, at least in my memory it was. During my early childhood years I grew up on Mckinley Avenue. I had lots
Union Mission Outreach
If you’ve been involved with Union Mission in the past, you know that we’re approaching our busiest time of year. Canned food drives, coat giveaways, Christmas Shop for children, Adopt-A-Family, Drumstick Dash, holiday dinners at Crossroads and our holiday food distributions are a part of our annual campaign. We are
Fall brings our annual food distribution
Fall is my favorite time of year. I love the change of weather, the changing of leaves, and of course a new football season to enjoy. I love the thought of Thanksgiving being just around the corner and the excitement of a new hunting season that my son JJ and
$2.49 Can Buy a Meal This Holiday Season
Help us feed families that are struggling this holiday season. Union Mission reaches into 20 plus counties to help provide meals for those less fortunate. Will Provide a Meal For One Person Will Provide 10 Meals for a Family Consider giving today to help us
UM Ag Fall Update
Our first season for our Union Mission Sustainable Agriculture Program is winding down. The garden will soon be mulched and prepared for winter. Many great steps were taken this year to provide more of our own food for the men and women in our addiction recovery programs as well as
2018 Union Mission Ornament
Each year Union Mission commissions West Virginia glass artisan John DesMeules to hand-make a glass ornament for Union Mission as a fundraising opportunity. This year’s ornament is a gorgeous, hand-blown frosted bauble infused with a variety of colorful glass pieces. This beautiful ornament is over four inches in diameter
Union Mission Preschool Now Open
There’s a new preschool in town! In a collaborative effort with the Kanawha County School Board, Union Mission’s new preschool officially opened August 21, at the Brookside campus. The preschool is the newest expansion of the Union Mission Preschool and Child Care program and will follow a structured curriculum
Annual Coat Drive & Distribution
We will be collecting coats during the month of October to be given to those in need at our annual coat distribution on November 3, 2018. Clean, gently used or new coats can be dropped off at Union Mission’s administrative building (not the thrift store) located at 700 South
Crossroads’ New Direction
Last month, I discussed how times have changed due to the reach of drug addiction in our state and how Union Mission has to change in order to keep up and to continue serving those with the greatest need. In working with our team, we have identified the direction
Help! General Fund giving is down this time of year.
The summer months have always been a low giving period for Union Mission. We understand families are busy with school graduations, vacation planning is in full swing, and the laid back opportunities of summer are on everyone's mind. Homelessness, hunger, and addiction aren't the first thing you think of
Sustainable Agriculture for Sustainable Recovery
“Every living creature will be food for you; as I gave the green plants, I have given you everything.” (Genesis 9:3) No matter the insurmountable needs we face, no matter the challenges, He has given us “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine”! (Eph. 3:20) Earlier this year,
3rd Annual Women on a Mission was a hit!
Special thanks to our sponsors and everyone who joined us at our annual Women On A Mission luncheon on May 10, 2018. It was a wonderful time of celebration as we recognized five extraordinary women for their special “gift of giving”. We would like to extend a special thanks
Announcing Union Mission Preschool & Childcare
RESERVE YOUR SPOT FOR THE 2018-2019 SCHOOL YEAR! Let your child grow with us! Enrollment is now being accepted for the upcoming year to Union Mission’s Preschool and Child Care Program for ages 0 to 5. Our program provides an affordable high quality curriculum to teach God’s Word and
2018 Women on a Mission
On May 10, 2018, five extraordinary women will be honored as we celebrate “The Gift of Giving” at the annual Women On A Mission luncheon. The luncheon will be held at the Charleston Embassy Suites at 12:00 p.m. and serves as an opportunity to honor women who consistently dedicate their
UM’s Sustainable Ag Update
The Union Mission Sustainable Agriculture Program just kicked into high gear this week! 300 broiler chicks were shipped to Union Mission and they are happily scratching, pecking, and eating in their new custom made brooder on Union Mission property.
Union Mission Launches New Vocation Training Program for Addiction Recovery Participants
Union Mission has launched a new Vocational Advancement Program that is geared to help equip the men and women coming through our addiction recovery program learn the skills and get the education they need to find a good job once they graduate from the program. The success of this
Registration begins for Drumstick Dash
The time has come to prepare for Thanksgiving. No, we aren't talking about what you are going to eat and where all your visiting extended family is going to stay, we are talking about getting ready for the Drumstick Dash! Registration is now open for our annual 5K that
Help us send much needed supplies to Florida
Union Mission is partnering with Bible Center Church and Lighthouse Ministries in Lakeland, Florida to provide much needed supplies to the victims of hurricane Irma. We would like your help! Our goal is to fill 3 semi trailers full of the supplies listed below. PLEASE NOTE: The team in Lakeland
A New Creature…
It is absolutely amazing what the power of God can do. He can change old worn out sinful people into new creatures. He can take that new creature and allow him or her to experience a life that was never even imagined. Hebrew 4:12 says “For the word of God
OverRun OverDose 5K
OverRun OverDose 5K and free concert – We Are Messengers! In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, 2017, Union Mission will be hosting Overrun Overdose on the levy with a 5K run/walk and a special concert by We Are Messengers. The festivities will start with the
A Victory Garden Helps Union Mission Feed the Needy
During World War II, Americans were encouraged to save metal for recycling, conserve on using gas, and many other sacrificial efforts to help support the war effort. One of the most popular was the victory garden. Growing your own food put less strain on the national food supply and allowed
The Prodigal Son
In 1993, with a wife, three children and a heart for the Lord, Steve Graham accepted a job with the Union Mission as head of maintenance. It wasn’t just Steve who took on this ministry full steam ahead however, he brought along his side-kicks Dusty, Daniel and Jessica who started helping
Union Mission Names Jason Quintrell President and Chief Executive Officer
The Union Mission Board of Directors announced today that Jason Quintrell has been named President and CEO. Rev. Quintrell brings more than 20 years of experience to the Union Mission. Most recently he served as pastor of Dunbar First Baptist Church. During his career, he’s also served as pastor of
2017 Women on a Mission Honorees
Union Mission Ministries is excited to announce the 2017 Women On A Mission honorees. The recipients will be honored at a luncheon on May 11th at the Charleston Marriott Pavilion at 12:00 PM. As an organization on a mission to serve others, Union Mission recognizes the importance of celebrating those
2017 Biblical Counseling & Dicipleship Training Schedule
Register Today!
Volunteer Spotlight – Betsy’s Birthday
Have you ever considered volunteering at Union Mission but you just didn't know what you could do or where you would be useful? We get asked constantly by potential volunteers, "I am not sure what I could offer Union Mission, so where could I be helpful?" There are literally hundreds
Bags of Love
We would like to thank Shana and Nathaniel Clay for their act of kindness for Valentine’s Day! People throughout the community donated funds to purchase Thirty-One bags and Shana, a consultant, filled each bag with toiletries, snacks and special goodies. The bags were given to Crossroads Men’s Shelter and Brookside
Holiday Report Card 2016
We are very thankful for the tremendous blessings God has bestowed on the mission and those we serve. As the holiday season approached, we weren’t sure how God was going to accomplish everything we had hoped to do, but He did through you and others! Holiday Food Giveaways Stats: Families
Sweet Hearts
Happy Valentine’s Day! The topic of love comes to the fore in the month of February, as we celebrate Valentine’s Day on the 14th. Most of us enjoy hearing a good love story, and it’s exciting when God brings two people together. This past year, the mission has been blessed to
Biblical Counseling & Discipleship registration going on now
Do you want to grow in your ability to understand and use the Bible? Do you care for those around you and want to give your friends biblical advice? At Union Mission, we believe that God has provided us with real answers for the real problems people encounter in life.
Papa Johns and WCHS are offering pizza in exchange for canned goods
Monday, November 21st, for one day only, Papa Johns and WCHS TV are teaming up to help Union Mission combat hunger this holiday season. During regular business hours at participating Papa Johns Pizza restaurants, bring in 12 cans of food and get a large, one topping pizza for free. All
We Feed People
Can you imagine going days without eating? What if you could not afford medicine and groceries? Which would you choose? These are real dilemmas that many face every day. It is hard to imagine as most of us get cranky if we miss more than one meal. Carol Hilleary, the
$2.49 Can Provide a Meal this Holiday
The holiday season is rapidly approaching. Along with the holidays comes colder temperatures. These temperatures can get us all in the holiday spirit, but for the homeless and hungry, they can turn deadly. November is a month to reflect on the many blessings we have received. It is also a
Trans-Siberian Orchestra Concert
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra will be coming to Charleston on Wednesday, November 30 to do a performance at the Charleston Civic Center. This year they have chosen Union Mission as their charity partner for the event and will be donating proceeds from each ticket sold at the Charleston concert. They will also
Rock Bottom
Hi, my name is Meresa. After my daddy died, I sank into deep and very dark depression. The pain was almost unbearable. I started smoking pot, drinking any chance I could get and taking my daddy’s leftover Seroquel. I jumped into a serious relationship with someone that was clearly not the best choice for me. I resented everyone.
2016 UMM CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT: The gift that gives back!
It’s that time of year again and here’s a look at the 2016 Union Mission Christmas ornament which will available beginning October 1, 2016. To pre-order, contact Terry Hodge 304.925-0366 ext. 145 or by email terry@wefeedpeople.com.
It’s amazing how God works.
Jim and Marie* had originally planned to sell their car which no longer had much value to them. God, however, had a different plan and worked through a friend who told another friend who told them about families who had lost their vehicles in the recent floods. Realizing that their car could make a big difference to a family,
Volunteers Make a Difference – Shana Clay
This year for Valentine’s Day, Shana Clay delivered 45 filled cinch sacs to be given to the homeless at Union Mission’s Crossroads men’s shelter.
Hello, I’m Mark
I am from Princeton and spent eighteen years in the military. I have served two tours in Iraq and was wounded while serving in Afghanistan.
You Did it!
A few months ago, we reached out to our friends and partners for help with a critical situation. Three of our trucks were out of commission. With prayerful consideration we entered into a lease agreement to purchase a used flatbed truck. Our goal was to pay monthly payments on the
No Better Mother’s Day Gift
For years, Janet’s son Tommy suffered from drug addiction. Janet knew in her heart that without intervention her son, now in his thirties, would probably not live another year.
That’s my mission
That’s My Mission is a new book written by the men of the Union Mission Foundations Program, Debbie Oliver and Dana Spence. This book includes the testimonies of several men who have participated, or are now participating in the Foundations Addiction Recovery Program. They share what God has done and