Albert Lin, The Merit Times staff writer
September 25, 2023

On the morning of September 16th, Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) of Toronto Mississauga Subchapters 1, 2, 3, and 4 jointly participated in the "One Million Trees Mississauga" program in the city of Mississauga.

40 Fo Guang members planted 135 tree saplings in Glen Eden Park in the city of Mississauga, making a contribution to the city's greenery.

Fo Guang members planted tree saplings in Glen Eden Park. photo／The Life News Agency

On the morning of September 16th, Fo Guang members, along with their families, returned to the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto. They were led by Guiding Venerable Ru Sheng in Morning Chanting. The venerable reminded everyone that environmental preservation and spiritual preservation are equally important. 

Venerable Miao Mu, the Superintendent of FGS Temple of Toronto, also gave a teaching, emphasizing the recent occurrence of many natural disasters, highlighting the importance of protecting the natural environment. Afterward, Fo Guang members went to Glen Eden Park.

BLIA of Toronto, in collaboration with the Mississauga City government, sets a good example of cooperation between a civil organization and a governmental entity contributing to society.

Fo Guang members took a group pfoto with city government staff. photo／The Life News Agency

The city government provided saplings and shovels and arranged for professional guidance and demonstrations, while Fo Guang volunteers actively participated, collectively making a positive impact on society.

After 3 hours of hard work, the volunteers successfully planted 135 trees, bringing the "One Million Trees Mississauga" program one step closer to its milestone.

A young man learned to plat trees. photo／The Life News Agency

The collective efforts of everyone will not only contribute to the greening of the city but also bring long-term benefits to the community. This includes improving air quality, providing habitats, increasing biodiversity, and building a more beautiful and sustainable city for future generations.

Children participating in tree planting learn about environmental conservation and greening concepts. photo／The Life News Agency

The volunteers who participated in tree planting worked very hard, and after the event, each one of them felt a sense of accomplishment. They expressed that their efforts had helped find new homes for 135 trees in the city of Mississauga and contributed to the ongoing positive impact on their beloved city.