Caring for the Earth

On Saturday, October 29, three members of the Earth committee attended an event held in the city of Newburgh. Sponsored by three partners, Outdoor Promise, Newburgh Conservation Advisory Council and the Newburgh Environmental Justice Fellows, the afternoon was a celebration of the work accomplished by these groups, including the planting of 33 street trees by the Justice Fellowship. They have a goal of planting 40 more trees this year!

In an city constantly struggling with poverty, homelessness and violence, the street trees beautify neighborhoods and remove pollution from the air and groundwater, especially the airborne particles that trigger asthma and other respiratory conditions. City trees also create shade and a green space for reflection and meditation. The event also provided information on the Newburgh Urban Farm and Food Initiative. There are many opportunities for us to work to better the lives of women and children.

We also had an opportunity to meet our new associate, Marichen Montiel, who spent a year working as a environmental justice fellow.

Pictured, from left: Sister Norma (Mary Giles) Carney, Sister Eleanor (Mary Emmet) Joyce, Marichen Montiel, Sister Maria Lopez.