ST. LOUIS, MO – Honoring its ongoing commitment to caring for the environment and to its values of stewardship and community, SSM Health has pledged to plant more than 3,000 trees this year in the neighborhoods it serves across the system’s four-state footprint.
The environmentally friendly initiative launched the week of Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 26) in collaboration with the Arbor Day Foundation. Later this week, SSM Health will begin planting trees on its own campuses. About 400 trees will be planted on SSM Health campuses and another 100 trees will be distributed to community partners for planting on their campuses or other locations as they deem appropriate.
In addition, SSM Health will distribute nearly 3,000 saplings to individual SSM Health ministries for sharing with employees, who can plant them with their families at their homes or other favorite locales.
"As a Mission-based Catholic organization, improving the health and well-being of our communities – including natural and man-made environments – is a key responsibility,” said Laura Kaiser, President/CEO of SSM Health. "By committing to make our campuses and our communities greener, we are contributing to the well-being of our patients, employees, and all those we serve, and remaining consistent with the vision of the Franciscan Sisters of Mary, our founding congregation.”
According to the Arbor Day Foundation, planting trees helps local communities and, ultimately, the entire planet in a number of ways, including:
- Reducing the effects of climate change by removing pollution from the air and producing oxygen. One large tree can provide a day’s supply of oxygen for up to four people.
- Providing vital wildlife habitat.
- Helping keep our drinking water clean through forested watersheds
- Lowering energy usage as trees planted near and around buildings reduce air conditioning and heating needs.
- Increasing satisfaction and reducing stress of workers who can view of trees at their workplace.