One anonymous donor’s dream has come true as two years after Neighbourwood North’s planting of 40 makamik crabapple trees at the Owen Sound Hospital are in their first full bloom. The donor and her late spouse enjoyed the sight of trees in blossom and hope that the crabapples will provide patients, staff, visitors and the larger community the same enjoyment. NeighbourWood North volunteers hope that people will take a few minutes to enjoy the beauty of these trees to provide some much needed relief at this stressful time.

With the full support of the administration and staff of Grey Bruce Health Services, NeighbourWoods North began a 10 year Naturalization Project at the Owen Sound Hospital in 2018. The makamik crabapple trees lining the hospital laneway were among the first trees planted. The Forest of Hope and Healing and the emergency room’s 80 White Spruce Windbreak were also begun that year.

In spite of Covid-19, the work goes on this year. Caring for the Forest of Hope & Healing, replacing and adding trees, mulching, weeding, trimming, and pruning are happening right now in small groups or dyads at the hospital. In early summer, preparations will be made to plant a Welcoming Garden on the traffic island across from the main hospital entrance. When the ground is dry enough to handle large equipment this summer the first portion of the Healing Path will be built. More information, including how to volunteer at this time, can be found at www.neighbourwoodsnorth.com

source: media release, NeighbourWoods North