2020 has been a rough year – and although COVID vaccines present a glimmer of light at the end of a very dark tunnel, all predictions call for a tough winter.
That’s why, said Innisfil Mayor Lynn Dollin, there’s a real need for something to brighten spirits. “This year, more than any other, we need something to hope for.”
The Community Needs Assessment group, a partnership between the Town of Innisfil and the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library, has recognized that mental health is a key issue during the ongoing pandemic and crisis, and has been working on projects that can maintain connectivity, encouraging residents to get outside and get active.
Like the Hope Tree.
The majestic evergreen, located in Innisfil Beach Park overlooking Lake Simcoe, has been decorated with lights, providing a beacon in the night along the main trail. A “mail box” has also been set up a short distance away, where visitors to the park are invited to drop off letters and notes, expressing their hopes and wishes for the coming year.
The messages will be posted on social media, to be shared with the community.
A small gathering of councillors and Innisfil ideaLAB staff came out for the official launch of the Hope Tree on Tuesday night, despite sub-zero temperatures.
Mayor Dollin spoke of the issues facing the Town and the world, during a time of pandemic and economic turmoil.
“Despite these challenges, we have hope,” she said; and hope “is looking ahead. It’s the opposite of giving up.”
Innisfil residents don't give up, said the Mayor.
Joined by councillors Bill Van Berkel, Alex Waters, Donna Orsatti, Ken Fowler and Carolyn Payne, she invited residents to take an evening walk in the park, to visit the tree and bring their letters.
“Please come down for a stroll – it’s chilly, but bring your wishes and hopes.”
Dollin and councillors dropped their own messages into the mail box. The mayor’s wish? “A vaccine!” she said.
The Hope Tree will be illuminated every evening, until the end of March.
