It looks like SF may be able to enjoy the cherry blossoms after all.
Two of Japantown’s beloved historic cherry blossom trees were destroyed at the beginning of this year. The trees were originally 12 to 15 feet high, but a vandal removed every branch down to their trunks, ensuring that San Francisco wouldn’t be able to enjoy the cherry blossoms this spring.
UPDATE: We have created a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to replace the cherry blossom trees. We greatly appreciate…
Posted by Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC) on Wednesday, January 6, 2021
However, after a GoFundMe to replace the trees went viral, almost 600 generous donors from across the country raised over $30,000. The donations blew past the initial goal of $5,000, shocking the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC).
“When we discovered our vandalized Cherry Blossom trees, we thought that they would never blossom again,” they said on GoFundMe. “But through your kindness they have… these are the most beautiful blossoms that can grow.”
Dear Friends,
Words can never truly express our deepest gratitude for your support to replant our vandalized Cherry…
Posted by Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC) on Monday, January 11, 2021
The trees were originally planted in front of the JCCCNC in 1994, to commemorate the visit of His and Her Majesty of Japan. They were the first cherry blossom trees to be planted after Japantown’s original trees were removed by the SF Redevelopment Agency.
“We are in contact with landscapers and the City with the hope to have new trees planted in time for Spring,” said the JCCCNC in a Facebook post.
It appears that the thoughtless actions of one person can’t stand up to the generosity of hundreds, and now Japantown’s cherished cherry blossoms will bloom again.
[Featured Image: Facebook/ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California (JCCCNC)]