People Inc. is planting trees for Arbor Day at locations across our service area. We are committed to nurturing the neighborhoods and communities in which we work, and where we maintain group homes, day programs and affordable apartment buildings.

Arbor Day is a national observance that celebrates the role of trees in our lives and promotes tree planting and care. First celebrated in 1872, it was established as a way to encourage farmers and homesteaders to plant trees that would provide shade, shelter, food, fuel and beauty to open areas. Communities, schools, businesses, and individuals alike join together to plant commemorative trees, hand out free trees, provide education on tree planting and care, and celebrate all the benefits trees provide.

In New York, Arbor Day is traditionally celebrated the last Friday in April. However, communities around the state can celebrate Arbor Day any day of the year. 

A ceremonial tree planting took place on April 26 at the agency's Brighton Park Day Program in the Town of Tonawanda. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities who participate in the program were assisted by People Inc. staff and leadership.

A feature of the habilitative services offered at the Brighton Park Day Program is a unique opportunity for participants to experience horticulture through an active on-site greenhouse. The greenhouse program is educational and therapeutic for people attending the Brighton Day Program. Through participation and visitation to the greenhouse, those served learn about the value of growing food, plants, flowers, and trees and their importance to the environment.

People Inc.'s Seneca Cazenovia Senior Apartments in Buffalo, Lilly Senior Apartments in Blasdell, Nelson Hopkins Apartments in Lockport, Commonwealth Apartment in Buffalo, Union Square in North Chili/Rochester and the administrative building in Williamsville are also receiving the gift of new trees.