In the courtyard of the Small Family Home in Ledići stand two old apple trees. For decades, their canopies have provided shade, and their fruit has been part of summers long past. It is very likely that they were planted around the same time the house itself was built – back in 1922. Nearly a century later, they still stand there, silent witnesses to time, people, and change.

In recent years, these apple trees have been heavily affected by mistletoe, a parasitic plant which, although medicinal, slowly weakens its host tree. Under the combined weight of mistletoe, snow, and strong mountain winds, the old branches became a risk – both to the trees themselves and to the children who stay here.

That is why we sought professional help.

This time, an arborist came to Ledići – a man who knows how to listen to trees. Carefully, and with great respect for their age, he removed the mistletoe and pruned the old, weakened branches on both apple trees. There were no rushed cuts or harsh interventions, only calm and thoughtful work with one clear goal: to preserve what can still be preserved.

When he learned who uses this house – that the Small Family Home is a place where children without parental care, children with developmental difficulties, and children from families at risk stay – he simply said: "There is nothing to pay."

Moments like these remind us that Foundation Second does not build projects alone, but also builds bridges between people. They remind us that there are still those who understand that nature, care, and solidarity are inseparably connected.

We hope these old apple trees will continue to provide shade for children during the summer months in the years to come. And we will continue to visit them, nurture them, and protect them – just as we protect this space, and the children who find safety, peace, and rest within it.

Because sometimes, saving a single tree means far more than the tree itself.