Our purpose:Through the Sacred Grounds program, Temple Shalom is working with the National Wildlife Federation and its partners to put into action three foundational Jewish values: caring for God's creation, preserving life and repairing the world.  By planting native plants on our Temple grounds and at our homes - in our yards or on our patios or balconies - we are creating an environment that is healthier, more beautiful and more bountiful for ourselves and the birds, bees, butterflies and other creatures with whom we share this earth.
This pledge:  I pledge to pick up three free native plants from Temple Shalom on Sunday, May 18, plant them promptly and tend them at my home.  I understand that they may be planted in the ground or in a pot on my balcony or patio.  Temple Shalom will provide me with the information I need to help these plants thrive.  Our supply of plants is limited; the first 50 households to sign up will be guaranteed to receive free plants.
Why native plants:  Native plants provide food for birds and butterflies as well as other wildlife, and they flourish easily with minimal care because they are suited to the soil and climate of our region.  Native plants also store and filter the water from our yards that flows into nearby streams and rivers, thus helping to protect these waterways from pollution and flooding. These waterways are places for children to play and for us all to enjoy the beauty of nature. In addition, they sustain hundreds of species of fish, frogs, birds, butterflies, and ultimately ourselves. All life depends on clean air and water.