The first case of COVID-19 in the Mahoning Valley was officially diagnosed March 11, 2020.

It confirmed that the new virus, which was wreaking havoc on the other side of the world - shuttering businesses, halting transportation, forcing residents into quarantine, closing borders, crippling economies, overwhelming health care systems and killing hundreds of thousands - had extended its reach into our community. 

That marked the beginning of what would become one of the Mahoning Valley's greatest tragedies and greatest triumphs. Tragic because despite valiant efforts, many lives were lost. Triumphant because, despite our heartbreak and losses, we pulled together taking swift action to minimize the effects of the deadly pandemic on the people of the Mahoning Valley. 

This memorial - the heart of which is a life-size bronze sculpture of Jesus anguishing in misery under a shroud, by artist Timothy P. Schmalz - honors those lives lost. it also serves as a tribute to those who waged war against the virus, exerting valiant efforts to care for the sick and dying, their families and a suffering community. Three large plaques serve as a backdrop to the sculpture: one honoring caregivers, one memorializing those lost to COVID-19 and celebrating those who survived, and one serving as a permanent historical record of the pandemic's impact on the Valley. A time capsule holding items relevant to the pandemic will be included with plans for it to be opened March 11, 2120, the 100th anniversary of the Mahoning Valley's first diagnosed case of COVID-19.

The COVID-19 Memorial serves as the centerpiece of a community-wide art installation featuring the complete series of Schmalz sculptures inspired by the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 25. Youngstown will be the first city in the United States and second in the world to feature the complete six-sculpture series. 

Thank you for participating in this lasting tribute to our community!