After reading Ron DaParma's "Wal-Mart praised, opposed" (March 11 and PghTrib.com), I can tell you there is no need for debate: Wal-Mart is helping the East Hills community.
Operation Nehemiah has been working to improve this area of our city and now it's really taking shape.
Since the East Hills shopping center was torn down in 2001, we have been looking for businesses to invest in this area again -- and Wal-Mart has stepped up to the plate.
This store will provide much-needed jobs for the community at a good wage and will create opportunities for other businesses, too.
We now have a wonderful opportunity to create a vibrant neighborhood anchored by a national retailer. Since Wal-Mart saves families more than $2,000 a year on basic items such as food and school supplies, this will certainly improve the quality of life for the residents of East Hills and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Operation Nehemiah serves as a voice for the community and our voice is loud and clear on this issue. We support the latest developments in the area around the church and welcome Wal-Mart with open arms.
Bishop Donald O. Clay Jr.East Hills
The writer is a pastor with Petra International Ministries.
