First Respite at the Park

Dr. Robert McInerney

Our first mobile thriving summer respite was wonderful!! I am so honored to be with these welcoming, kind, and thoughtful students. Lots of folks came by to talk with us, eat a bit, and paint! Some folks from Light of Life walked over, others were just walking by. A few young kids came to do art and eat, a mom with her child sat with us too. One fellow helped us pack up, said he had a great time, and planned to follow us to our next respite. My favorite part was when people from the community, who did not know each other, met at our respite, and enjoyed a conversation. A young woman came by with strawberries and offered everyone some. The Pittsburgh Park Conservancy staff were great and local businesses donated us food (and Common Place coffee donated us coffee!). We now have our own pop-up tent, foldable table and benches, and huge water/Gatorade dispenser. We’ll be back in a couple of weeks but our next stop is Hot Metal Bridge Faith Community.