London, ON – Just a few weeks after 120 newly planted trees were uprooted and damaged at Arthur Ford Park, ReForest London is turning the loss into an act of renewal. The charity will host a community re-planting event on Wednesday, October 15 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Sisters of the Precious Blood Monastery, where the rescued trees will be given a new home.
After reading about the vandalism, the Sisters of the Precious Blood reached out to offer their land for replanting, an immediate gesture of compassion that inspired this community gathering.
The re-planting is supported by TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, Tree Canada, Canada Life, and ReForest London’s network of donors and volunteers; partners who share the organization’s vision for a greener, more resilient city.
“When we discovered the damage, our volunteers and staff didn’t stand by, they stood up,” said Rodger Moran, Executive Director of ReForest London. “Thanks to the generosity of the Sisters and the spirit of our supporters, we’re giving these trees a second chance to grow.”
Most of the saplings, originally planted just three days before the incident, have been re-potted and are expected to survive. They will be replanted alongside new trees to create a tranquil, restorative green space at the monastery that can be enjoyed by the public.
“This moment could have discouraged us,” said Moran. “Instead, it reminded us that resilience grows stronger when it’s shared. These trees, and this community, will keep growing.”