Pilot Program Brings New Trees to Housing York Tenants (Tuesday, November 18, 2025 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)
YORK REGION, ON – Tenants and staff from Housing York Inc. (HYI), along with partners from Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests (LEAF) and The Regional Municipality of York, gathered recently to celebrate the success of a pilot program aimed at increasing the tree canopy and enhancing green spaces on Housing York Inc. properties. The event highlighted how tenants and staff are transforming their surroundings into vibrant, nature-filled spaces while fostering a stronger sense of community.
The recognition event took place at 55 Orchard Heights Boulevard, Aurora, where 11 native trees have been planted this year, including tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera), eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis), bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa) and silver maple (Acer saccharinum). Trees were selected and planted by the York Region Forestry team, and LEAF provided training and supplies for tenant-led Tree Care Teams to help the trees thrive in their early years.
As part of this year’s pilot program, 54 trees were planted across 5 HYI properties. The program demonstrates the power of collaboration between tenants, Housing York Inc., and York Region in creating greener, more resilient communities.
This pilot program was made possible with the support of Housing York Inc. and York Region.
Urban trees improve health by cleaning the air, moderating temperatures, and supporting wildlife. This pilot program shows how accessible urban forestry can enhance quality of life and build greener, more connected communities.
For more information on the Housing York Inc. Tree Stewardship Initiative, please visit https://www.yourleaf.org/housing-york-inc-tree-stewardship-initiative.
QUOTES:
This pilot program highlights the power of collaboration and community involvement in creating lasting green change. Together with Housing York Inc. and York Region, we’re empowering residents to take part in shaping greener, healthier neighborhoods.
- Brian Millward, Community Programs Manager at LEAF
This pilot program is a powerful example of how collaboration can bring lasting change to our communities. By working together with Housing York Inc. (HYI) and tenants, York Region Forestry and LEAF, we are planting trees while sowing deeper connections to nature and to each other. With hands-on workshops, Tree Care Teams and coordinated planting efforts through the York Property Greening Program, HYI neighbourhoods are becoming greener, healthier and more vibrant places to live.
- Eric Jolliffe, Chairman and CEO, The Regional Municipality of York
PARTNERS:
About HYI: Housing York Inc. (HYI) is the largest community housing provider in York Region, offering homes to more than 4,500 residents across 38 properties located in all nine local cities and towns
About York Region: The Regional Municipality of York consists of nine local cities and towns and provides a variety of programs and services to 1.29 million residents and 57,000 businesses with approximately 624,000 employees. More information about York Region’s key service areas is available at york.ca/RegionalServices.
About LEAF: LEAF (Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the protection and improvement of the urban forest. Beginning in 1996, LEAF has been delivering successful planting and stewardship programs that engage citizens. LEAF envisions healthy, vibrant communities where everyone values and cares for the urban forest.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
York Region
Tamara Ostrowski, Corporate Communications Advisor,
1-877-464-9675, ext. 71226 Cell: 905-251-6412 | tamara.ostrowski@york.ca
Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF)
Justin Lewis, Marketing and Communications Lead
416-413-9244 | justin@yourleaf.org