MCKEESPORT, Pa. — Members of McKeesport Area Ministerium organized a show of support and appreciation Tuesday for police officers who serve the community.
“We wanted to do this before, but now is the time to step up and say, ‘You’re special, and your life matters to us,’” a member of the McKeesport Area Ministerium said.
DI’s Kornerstone Diner in McKeesport offered gift cards for every officer to enjoy a free meal, and McKeesport Mayor Michael Cherepko said it was a welcomed gesture during trying times across the country.%
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“I don’t think there’s any time better than now to really have an organization like the Ministerium to step up to just show their appreciation,” Cherepko said.
McKeesport Police Chief Bryan Washowich said his department is taking extra precautions in light of the shootings of police officers nationwide.
“We have doubled persons up in vehicles at night. We’re always taught to expect the unexpected. It’s a trying time right now in the United States and there’s a lot of dialogue that needs to be discussed, and we’re doing that,” Washowich said.
Members of the Ministerium said people should use kindness, support and prayers to make sure McKeesport’s officers know that the community is grateful for their service. The group plans to make the event an annual one.
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