Healthy Communities Fruit Tree Program

 

The Healthy Communities Fruit Tree Program is a collaborative effort between San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) and Healthy Day Partners® (HDP). To cultivate our shared commitment to creating a sustainable and healthy planet we are providing for the planting of nourishing fruit trees in locations throughout San Diego County such as community and school gardens, promise zones, low income areas, and city parks with the goals of addressing climate change and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction, alleviating food insecurity, strengthening and beautifying communities, improving quality of life, as well as surrounding air, water and soil quality.

Applicants must pledge to properly care for donated fruit trees and use them to help improve the health of their community. The program provides high quality fruit trees, expertise and oversight in locating, irrigating, and designing area(s) where fruit trees will grow, workshops for planting and continued care of fruit trees, and some financial support to invest toward each project. .

Some tips for successful applications:

·        Have an appropriate location for up to 10 fruit trees (sunny, planted at least 12 to 15 feet apart)

·        Own or have long-term access to the land (non-public school applicants will need proof of lease or agreement)

·        Have dedicated irrigation in place or in the fruit tree planting plan

·        Willingness to help coordinate volunteers for planting day

·        Commitment to care for fruit trees and use them to educate the community about carbon (GHG) reduction, and to further the goals of this grant program. If you are ready to grow a healthier community, fill out the Healthy Communities Fruit Tree Program Interest Form.