“The people in our town have a great desire for us to be together in a positive manner and to revel in the diversity in the city of Clairton,” said CommUnity Day committee member, Mary Parks. “We had a special interest in kids this year because it’s a good way to recognize the future and young people need encouragement because times are hard these days.”

Miller and Large avenues were filled with  clowns, a puppet show, a petting zoo and a nearly new free clothing giveaway plus pony rides and ethnic foods from all of the churches in Clairton.

And residents came from all over the city to participate in the festival-styled day.

“We’re going to have stuffed cabbage, perogies, Jamaican dishes and soul food,” said CommUnity Day chairwoman Kathy Tachoir.

Other activities included free judo and boxing exhibitions, a children’s talent show, face painting, children’s games and story time.

The Clairton Police Department had a booth offering DNA testing kits for children and the Clairton Public Library had a booth set to give out library cards and sign people up for the library. Women Infants and Children also had a booth providing information on its programs.

“This is a community effort,” Tachoir said. “We really got a lot of people putting forth a lot of effort and being supportive.”

According to Tachoir, the Unity Group of Clairton churches, city officials, members of the Clairton School District and members of the CEDCC, as a way to get the residents more unified, started the concept of CommUnity Day.

“We want people to socialize and get to know each other and we’re concentrating on kids because we want them to bring their parents and grandparents,” Tachoir said.

The camaraderie between fellow Clairton residents is one of the reasons why Agnes Taulton looks forward to this  event each year.

“I like to be among people and I like to socialize,” said Taulton, a lifelong Clairton resident. “Unity day can teach our kids to want to be something and it gives them something to do instead of getting in trouble. From table to table you see different products and you notice the people who gave their time to help the community.

“We need to rebuild this community and that day allows us to get together. No matter what color or religion you are you can enjoy the day of fellowship. Usually it’s separate, but when we all get together it’s a joy. It’s where we start having peace and love for one another,” Taulton said. “It’s nice to see how people donate their time and knowledge to help us. It’s just a nice day.”