SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- South Bend Venues Parks and Arts (VPA) is hosting two Arbor Day events with free tree giveaways sponsored by Indiana Michigan Power Foundation.

On April 25 at O'Brien Park and May 2 at Howard Park, the tree giveaway will be from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. South Bend celebrates its 29th year as Tree City USA and being a Urban Canopy Award recipient for their fourth year. Through the sponsorship of the Indiana Michigan Power Foundation, and a generous donation of 100 trees from Indiana representatives Maureen Bauer, Jake Teshka, and David Niezgodski, the City of South Bend and the VPA Forestry Crew will give away 200+ non-invasive trees.

“There are so many benefits to being a Tree City USA, especially as we celebrate our 29th year,” said South Bend VPA Forester, Brent Thompson. “Not only does it positively impact our community, but it also opens doors to additional resources for our department.”

Both events will take place rain or shine. Free trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

To learn more about the City’s tree canopy program and how to donate, please visit sbvpa.org/donate/tree-canopy-program/.

To learn more about the City’s Pinhook Park Native Tree Trail and how to become a sponsor, please visit sbvpa.org/donate/pinhook-park-native-tree-trail-sponsor-now/.