By Yeimi Bautista, Chairperson, Latino Services Task Force of Healthy Adams County
The PathStone Migrant Health Program, a member of the Latino Services Task Force of Healthy Adams County, marked a recent milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil a new wooden pavilion on the center’s playground that will provide shade and improved environmental safety for children and staff.
The pavilion was funded by a grant from Miller & Huber of Hanover, PA, after Executive Director Iris Perez applied for support to realize a long-held vision of creating a joyful, protective space for families who use the center.
Former program alumnus Emanuel Esquivias returned to build the pavilion, calling the project a “full-circle moment.” Now the CEO of his own construction company, Esquivias said he was honored to give back to the place that once made him feel seen and valued.
The morning celebration was warm and gratitude-filled: families enjoyed fresh apples donated by the Adams County Nursery, and parents at the event expressed heartfelt appreciation for the transformation. Representatives from across the Latino Services Task Force—including Vida Charter School, La Comunidad from the Center for Youth and Community Development, Early Intervention programs, WellSpan Health, Manos Unidas—along with local agencies, employers, four-legged friends and Adams County Commissioner Marty Qually attended to celebrate a shared commitment to children.
Organizers said the event served as a reminder that peace begins with community and with the life-giving goals that unite neighbors, volunteers and local leaders.