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The Adopt-an-Island program is a “source of pride” for Holyoke, Mass.
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A southern Massachusetts city’s Adopt-an-Island program, aimed at beautifying public spaces, has faced setbacks this year
A volunteer reported eight newly planted flowers were stolen from her lot — an ongoing pattern in Holyoke in recent years
Though thefts and damage are discouraging, many volunteers are simply picking their shovels back up and replanting
Whoever is stealing the flowers in Holyoke, Mass. is working hard — but the Adopt-an-Island volunteers are working harder.
The city has observed its longstanding tradition of beautifying empty lots or “islands” in high-traffic areas through local sponsorships, but this year, the wholesome practice has been interrupted.
Anne Thalheimer, a Ward 3 city councilor who sponsors an island in the city, told Mass Live in an interview published on Monday, July 13 eight newly planted flowers had been removed from her lot. After a little digging, Thalheimer discovered her floral garden wasn’t the only one impacted.
“I’ve heard from other island participants that they’ve had plants stolen,” Thalheimer said, per the outlet. “One person apparently had all of their plants stolen the same day that they were planted.”
Per the Adopt-an-Island site, the initiative has long been a “source of pride” for the city. Volunteers are responsible for planting flower displays and maintaining them, and in return for their sponsorship, their name or business is displayed on a city-provided sign at the site.
The Holyoke Police Department is investigating the incident after a larceny report was filed about the suspected theft at Thalheimer’s lot, Mass Live reported.
Flower theft has been a problem in years past, Department of Public Works director Michael Gallagher told Mass Live, and has proved discouraging for some. It’s hard to truly prevent any harm to the sites, he said.
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“You could put a camera up in a tree or something, but it’s really just flowers,” said Nilka Ortiz, the mayor’s executive assistant who oversees the program.
PEOPLE has contacted Ortiz for comment.
Still, volunteers have repeatedly proven they’re dedicated to the cause. In previous years, volunteers have just taken up their trowels and shovels again, and replanted them — a testament to the city’s dedication to beautifying its spaces.
Read the original article on People
