The city of Albany is partnering with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation ahead of Climate Week.

DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Maher joined Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan at Giffin Memorial Elementary School on Friday to launch funding for community forestry.

The money will go toward forest resiliency in disadvantaged communities.

Maher said trees play a huge role in combating climate change in New York.

“Climate week is next week, and what better way to start climate week than talking about trees, forests and trees, especially in urban areas, are really critical and essential tools to fighting extreme heat and creating good community character in our urban areas,” he said.

Climate Week begins Sunday and goes through Sept. 29 and is celebrated across the world.