In August the Cedar Rapids area sustained winds of over 100mph from a derecho storm. The storm destroyed 68% of the tree canopy in our area. In an effort to take another step forward with recovery, and rebuild McGrath sprung into action. McGrath Family of Dealerships came up with a plan called the Planting Forward Initiative. We were able to partner up and order 300 trees to give out to our McGrath friends and families.
On Monday, trees were brought to McGrath so that friends and families could pick up to three trees to take home and plant. It was a day full of hope, support, and excitement as it was another step forward to rebuild our community. As families came to select their trees, the smiles and appreciation was a wonderful sight to see. Many shared their stories about the impact of the Derecho and just how grateful they were for this opportunity.
We had just moved into our new home on a beautiful acre of land with several large trees just a couple days before Derecho. Due to the Derecho we had a lot of damage to our new home and lost most of our trees. This is just so great.
McGrath Automotive Technician
In addition to giving trees to friends and family, McGrath also donated 30 trees to a local nonprofit that will be planted in our community.