Calvary Church Hosts Immigrant Families for First Baseball Game Experience
A heartwarming initiative by Calvary Church in North Huntingdon is helping immigrant families feel more at home in Westmoreland County. Through their Calvary Cares program, the church is dedicated to aiding international families in adjusting to their new lives in the United States.
One of the standout events organized by Calvary Church was a trip to PNC Park in Pittsburgh on June 30, where three immigrant families got to experience America’s favorite pastime for the first time. The families, hailing from Ukraine, Mexico, Cambodia, and Colombia, had never witnessed a baseball game before.
Rev. Nick Poole, who leads the Calvary Cares program, emphasized the challenges faced by these families in adapting to the cultural nuances of their new surroundings. He explained that some of the families are wary about receiving help from institutions, whether it be the government or a church.
According to Rev. Poole, there is a suspicion among these families that assistance could be a method of manipulation. To address this, the Calvary Cares program trains family advocates who help immigrants understand the ins and outs of life in the United States. These advocates strive to bridge the gaps in understanding and ensure smooth assimilation.
Rev. Poole shared an anecdote about a Ukrainian immigrant who was hesitant to use Pennsylvania’s E-Z Pass system while driving on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The individual believed it to be a way for the government to track their travel. Rev. Poole acknowledged that these families have lived under different regimes and may interact differently in their new environment.
Empathy is the key to better understanding and supporting these immigrant families. While finding employment is crucial, Rev. Poole stressed the importance of establishing a sense of community. Creating meaningful relationships and helping these families feel safe and welcome are essential factors in their successful integration.
If we can help them early on, get them connected here, and then set down roots here, they may stay, said Rev. Poole.
The Calvary Cares program understands that beyond providing job opportunities, it is vital to cultivate a strong support system that enables immigrant families to thrive in their new surroundings. By fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring their safety and well-being, the program hopes to facilitate their successful integration into American society.
This initiative demonstrates the kindness and compassion of the community, as Calvary Church and its dedicated members take the time to make a difference in the lives of these immigrant families. By offering experiences like attending a baseball game, they are not only introducing them to American traditions but also showing them that they have a support system to rely on.
Through their unwavering commitment to these families, Calvary Church is setting an example of how communities can come together to make a positive impact. By extending a helping hand and providing a network of support, they are helping these immigrant families create a new sense of home in their adopted country.
The immigrants’ introduction to baseball at PNC Park was not only a memorable experience but also a significant step toward building bridges between cultures. Calvary Church’s efforts demonstrate the power of acceptance, understanding, and the potential for immigrant families to embrace their new lives in the United States.
As Calvary Church continues its mission, they hope to inspire other communities and organizations to create similar initiatives that promote inclusivity, support, and a deep sense of belonging for immigrant families. Through collective efforts, society can celebrate diversity and create a warm and welcoming environment for all.
