It's official, the travel season has begun and the florescent yellow signs announcing free food and coffee for drivers have been posted along I-84.
On Wednesday afternoon, before the heavy rain came, representatives from First Church of Christ in Wethersfield had set up a station under a gray tent at the popular rest stop near the Massachusetts border. Weary travelers and curious onlookers stopped by to say hello, trap a cup of coffee and a doughnut, muffin, hot dog or hamburger. All free (of course donations were accepted).
Long-haul truck driver Gary Jackson of Indiana said he appreciated the service as it gave him a chance to stretch his legs and grab a bite to eat before deliver in his cargo to its destination in the Bay State.
"It's an act of kindness," Jackson said of the offerings before heading back to his tractor trailer.
Lisa Breglio and Marilyn Hopper had set up their tent and put out an array of goodies for travelers early Wednesday morning. They day may have been a long one, but well worth the time and effort. The women said the enjoyed the opportunity to meet people who stopped to say hello and grab a drink or something to eat. It gave them a chance to talk about the church's upcoming mission to the Dominican Republic and it allowed them to help local people who were in the midst of a long trip, as well.
Throughout the summer, various nonprofit organizations will take up a post at the eat area to offer a similar service. Just look for the florescent yellow signs!
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.