Franklin Park Zoo is encouraging local residents of all ages to embrace their inner arborists by planting trees in their own backyards. In partnership with Neighborhood Forest, Zoo New England’s Franklin Park Zoo is hosting a tree giveaway program over April school vacation week. This program was funded through a grant generously provided by Liberty Mutual Insurance, which is supporting ZNE’s nature-based solutions for climate resiliency.

This giveaway aims to increase the tree canopy in Dorchester and Roxbury, as well as Greater Boston. Residents are encouraged to sign up to receive a tree sapling, which will be distributed on select days during April school vacation week at Franklin Park Zoo. At the tree pickups, participants will learn about planting methods, tree care, and maintenance activities from the Zoo’s horticulture team, before bringing the small sapling home for planting. 

These giveaways will be distributed to recipients in Dorchester, Roxbury, and Greater Boston, from April 22 - 25. Residents can register for tree giveaways at www.neighborhoodforest.org/registration-services/?school=98115. Visit www.franklinparkzoo.org for more information on giveaway schedules.

Registration Deadline: March 15, 2026
Pick-Up Days: April 22 – 25, 2026