Cancer Disparity Partnership St. Louis: Mobilizing Churches to Transform Cancer Care

Cancer Companions is launching an inspiring and strategic new initiative in St. Louis: the Cancer Disparity Partnership, a program designed to address the deep inequities faced by underserved cancer patients—particularly those in North County and similar communities.

In this video introduction, founder Karen Tripp explains how the program equips local churches to become powerful hubs of spiritual, emotional, and practical support for cancer patients. Through volunteer teams trained as Cancer Prayer Partners and Cancer Bible Study Facilitators, participating churches will provide weekly one-on-one encouragement, prayer, scripture-based care, and group fellowship for those navigating cancer.

Additionally, each volunteer team will be supported by a trained liaison who connects with cancer centers and nurse navigators to help patients access resources, manage side effects, and advocate for better care—an essential need highlighted by long-standing disparities in diagnosis and survival rates.

Made possible through grant funding, including support from the David Steward Family Foundation, the program will begin with five churches in underserved neighborhoods and gradually expand.

This initiative unites the body of Christ to bring hope, support, and improved care to cancer patients who need it most. Churches interested in participating can learn more or contact Karen Tripp directly for details on training, materials, and next steps.