As the urbanization of the human population increases, destruction of green spaces in urban areas is increasing at an alarming rate. Urban areas with less tree coverage, are often communities of color and tend to have higher levels of air pollution, which is linked to increased rates respiratory diseases, particularly in children. Latino neighborhoods have up to 21% less tree canopy coverage compared to predominantly White neighborhoods in the same cities. 

Solutions for nature access in urban areas should be a high priority to hit the nexus of biodiversity, climate gains, and societal benefits. In the U.S., the biggest hot spots for nature loss within communities of color are in metropolitan areas, usually Latino and African-American neighborhoods.

“For more than a decade, Hispanic Access has catapulted our trust-based community networks into action by providing access, capacity, and the belief to create beneficial changes in their communities,” said Hispanic Access Foundation President and CEO Maite Arce. "We are thrilled to support Hollywood, FL to equip underserved communities with not only more trees and plants in their neighborhoods, but also the knowledge and resources to become engaged in urban forestry.” 

The City of Hollywood, through the Urban and Community Forestry Grant, seeks to plant approximately 478 trees in disadvantaged communities. The selected tree species, including Southern Oak, Green and Silver Buttonwood, Organ Geiger, Stoppers, Gumbo Limbo, Dahoon Holly, Pigeon Plum, Royal Poinciana, Yellow Poinciana, Bridal Veil, and Sabal Palms, will be installed along public rights-of-way. In addition to enhancing the area's green space, the project will feature community outreach and education to promote public health, safety, and the community’s well-being, while preserving neighborhood character.

"Trees make a difference. Studies show that communities with access to trees and green spaces enjoy better health outcomes, reduced crime, and a lower average temperature,” said Arlene Anathan, Communications Manager at the Office of Communications Marketing and Economic Development. “The City of Hollywood was awarded a $455,659 UDSA Urban Forestry grant to plant approximately 478 new trees, thereby increasing the tree canopy and decreasing the urban heat island. Based on the city’s 2023 Phase I Tree Inventory and results from the 2020 City-wide Vulnerability Assessment, the tree planting project will focus on low-to-moderate-income areas determined to be in need. The grant also includes funding for community outreach and education activities to ensure proper care of the planted trees and inform residents about their environmental benefits. Hollywood is among 385 grant recipients nationwide working to increase equitable access to trees and green spaces and the many benefits they provide."

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service awarded more than $1 billion in competitive grants through the Urban and Community Forestry Program. Hispanic Access Foundation and the other awardees will be working towards advancing the mission of Justice40, to deliver 40% of the program’s investments through established and new partnerships working to support disadvantaged communities experiencing low tree canopy and environmental justice issues.