The community of Somerset West have honoured their lost loved ones and pets by planting trees in their local park, creating shade for future generations.
Somerset West, South Africa (11 May 2021) – Friends of Radloff Park was established by the community to ensure their park was well-maintained and kept tidy. The community has grown into something special, and over the weekend, young and old came together to honour their lost loved ones.
Families woke up early and went to Radloff Park to help plant trees. A total of 70 trees were planted in three hours at the park.
Everyone came hour to honour the people and animals they love most, all while providing shade for generations to come. One young boy armed with a mini shovel helped fill the hole dug by his mom after planting their tree in honour of his late father. Another community member, aged 70, planted a tree in memory of a beloved pet.
Annabel Marx shared this beautiful story with us. Fellow community member, Annette Fickl got her crafty father involved. Her father spent days making beautiful plaques with messages of love, hope and loss for the big day. He continues to make these memory plaques as requests come in.
This community project brought many people joy and comfort in their loss. It will be a constant reminder for all those who visit the park in years to come. The group even installed a Dog Ball and Stick Library.
Friends of Radloff Park (FORP) was formed in 2014 as a voluntary organisation to help protect the beautiful open space and all the trees and wildlife within it. The Lourens River runs through the park. It is a hotspot for so many dog walkers, joggers and families who have picnics by the river.
“We aim to create the most environmentally friendly park nationwide and it all starts with the lovers of the park.” – Annabel Marx
If you are in Somerset West and would like to join the group, you can do so via Facebook here.
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