QNS
Local nonprofit to host free tree giveaway event starting Apr. 13
By Athena Dawson
April 3, 2024
Starting Saturday, Apr. 13, the New York Restoration Project (NYRP) is launching a free tree giveaway as part of their Earth Month Initiative. Nature enthusiasts are invited to register for a chance to bring home their very own tree, at no cost.
In collaboration with local elected officials and community organizations, NYRP aims to distribute 3,500 trees across all five boroughs from Apr. 13 through May 12.
The Million Tree Initiative, launched in 2008, was a partnership between NYRP, the NYC Parks Department, and former Mayor Michael Bloomberg to create a more sustainable city by 2023.
NYRP focused on providing free trees to homeowners and landowners and planted trees in parks, schools, and public spaces. Although the millionth tree was planted in the Bronx in 2015, NYRP has continued the program’s legacy.
The organization is distributing over 30 different species of trees, some of which bear fruit. These trees include the American Persimmon, American Plum, Beach Plum, Black Cherry, and Elderberry.
NYRP added that as the climate crisis intensifies, trees play an essential role in the city’s environmental makeup. Trees mitigate the effects of climate change by providing shade, creating habitats for wildlife and improving air quality throughout the city.
Lynn Bodnar Kelly, NYRP’s executive director, feels the program is vital in improving the city’s environment. “This beloved program continues to spread the undeniable benefits of our urban tree canopy to the neighborhoods that need them most. Our city must get more trees in the ground if we want to increase New York’s environmental resilience truly,” she said.
NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue added that the event moves the city closer to achieving 30% canopy coverage.
Other local leaders said that additional trees can have life-saving benefits for residents across the city. “Hundreds of New Yorkers die every year from heat-related causes, primarily in neighborhoods that lack an expansive tree canopy,” said Queens Council Member Shekar Krishnan (D-25), Chair of the Council’s Committee on Parks and Recreation. “Trees don’t just beautify our communities and improve our mental health; they also save lives.”
Founded by Bette Midler in 1995, NYRP is a non-profit organization that creates high-quality public green spaces for all New Yorkers. NYRP works with residents and organizations across the five boroughs to plant trees, renovate gardens, and restore parks, with the goal of transforming the city’s environmental landscape.
Queens residents can pick up free trees at the locations listed below.
Jackson Heights
Location: Travers Park (76-9 34th Ave.)
Date and Time: Apr. 13 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Jamaica
Location: 108-56 Union Hall St.
Date and Time: Apr. 21 from 2-4 p.m.
Flushing
Location: 42-80 Crommelin St.
Date and Time: Apr. 27 from 2-4 p.m.
Far Rockaway
Location: 58-03 Rockaway Beach Blvd.
Date and Time: Apr. 27 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
For those unable to register in advance, organizers assure that a selection of trees will still be available an hour after opening, during each giveaway event. Trees will be distributed to walk-up participants on a first-come, first-served basis until all have been claimed, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to partake.
