Paying tribute to our roots

April 28, 2017 12:00 a.m.

​Vaughan receives Canada 150 grant to support tree-planting initiatives

 

Trees are a symbol of growth and unity. They better our lives by offering environmental, social and economic benefits to our communities. They improve our surroundings and make our neighbourhoods feel safe. In honour of Canada 150, the City of Vaughan held a ceremonial tree planting and commemorative plaque unveiling at the Civic Centre Resource Library to pay homage to the country’s past, present and future.

 

The event celebrated First Nations heritage and culture, and recognized the collaborative efforts of all who contribute to the city. A Sugar Maple was planted for Canada, an Eastern White Pine for Ontario and a Cedar tree for the Aboriginal community. The three trees represent social harmony and symbolize the nation coming together to observe a special once-in-a-lifetime occasion — Canada’s sesquicentennial. This project was made possible in part by the Government of Canada through the CN EcoConnexions From the Ground Up program, in partnership with Tree Canada.

 

Vaughan was one of 50 successful cities across Canada to receive $25,000 in 2017 to assist in rebuilding its tree canopy. In addition to the tree-planting event, funds received through the grant will go toward working with students and volunteers to teach them about the importance of environmental stewardship. It will also help them plant close to 600 trees and shrubs in an effort to beautify various sites within the city.

 

QUOTES

 

“One of Vaughan’s great strengths is its diversity and we are proud to host an event that unites us as a nation and commemorates Canada’s 150th anniversary. The tree-planting ceremony is a demonstration of our commitment to honouring our ancestors and celebrating our heritage. Trees are one of our most valuable resources. They protect us, shelter us and establish a deeper connection to our community. I want to thank the Department of Canadian Heritage, CN and Tree Canada for supporting our common vision to create a greener city for future generations.”
-Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua

 

“The environment is one of the major themes at the heart of the celebrations for the 150th anniversary of Confederation, which is why the Government of Canada is pleased to support Tree Canada. The Canada 150 project “Tree to Our Nature” will not only leave a lasting legacy for future generations, but also allow Canadians to get closer to nature and increase their environmental awareness. As Minister of Canadian Heritage, I would like to acknowledge everyone taking part in this inspiring and unifying project. I applaud your efforts to help build healthy, sustainable communities.”
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage

 

“Planting trees in our communities isn't just an excellent way of celebrating Canada's 150th anniversary. It's also a great way of making a positive, meaningful contribution to the future beauty and health of our communities that will endure for generations to come."
- Michael Rosen, President of Tree Canada

 

QUICK FACTS

 
  • Every year, CN EcoConnexions From the Ground Up provides funding of up to $25,000 for the greening of cities across Canada, especially in communities where CN operates.
  • CN EcoConnexions supports projects that provide a means for community engagement and address local issues related to water conservation, naturalization, stewardship and environmentally friendly transportation.
  • The City also received $70,200 in grant monies under the Department of Canadian Heritage Canada 150 Fund to run special programming for the commemorative year.
  • On July 1, the City will celebrate Canada Day in style with a grand fête at Boyd Conservation Park.
  • The community is encouraged to follow and participate in the conversation online using #VaughanCAN150.
  • The campaign website at vaughan.ca/Canada150 is the community’s one-stop shop for all information and event listings related to Canada 150.
 

LEARN MORE

 

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua 

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua stands in front of a freshly planted Sugar Maple
and an Eastern White Pine while welcoming dignitaries and special guests
to the Canada 150 commemorative tree planting.
 

Canada 150 ceremonial plaque
The ceremonial plaque commemorates Canada 150 and recognizes
the generous donation made by the Government of Canada through
CN EcoConnexions in partnership with Tree Canada.

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