Irwin church gives new life to Westmoreland family court waiting area

A few people had honest words Thursday about the previous state of a waiting room outside family court at the Westmoreland County Courthouse: outdated, dreary, worn and a collection of random things.

But thanks to Calvary Church in Irwin, those descriptive words are all positive after a $10,000 renovation project. The kid-friendly space has new furniture, bright lighting and loads of donated toys for the youngsters who find themselves caught up in the court system.

Faith Fidazzo worked on the space with her husband, Lucas Fidazzo, through L&F Quality Home Improvements, along with help from county public works employees and facilities director John Stevenson.

“We’re very happy with it,” said Faith Fidazzo, who is a member of Calvary Church. “I just think it’s so nice and inviting, hopefully a distraction from what they’re going through.”

The room is used by adults and children, many of whom are going through difficult times at the Greensburg courthouse while waiting for family court hearings related to custody, foster care and protection-from-abuse matters. Judge James Silvis said family court hearings can be disruptive and stressful for children.

Westmoreland County Commissioner Ted Kopas said he is grateful for the church’s generosity. The updates will go toward easing the fear and burden that can be associated with family court matters.

“Most of the folks who are here for court don’t want to be here,” he said. “Particularly children, vulnerable children who are understandably frightened, scared and this potentially can be traumatic.”

It is also used for families awaiting joyous hearings, such as adoptions.

Pastor Nick Poole said his church takes on several projects every year to benefit different aspects of the community. There are a number of foster families who attend the church, and Poole sought to identify needs with their help. They suggested the waiting room, which is a space where life-altering circumstances are processed, often through tears, he said.

“Our church chose this project because we believe those moments matter,” he said. “That they deserve to be experienced in a place of dignity and warmth.”