The Immigration, Refugee and Human Trafficking Committee, held their bike collection on Saturday, May 17. Approximately 200 bikes were collected in all sizes, states of repair and “ages”. We were able to repair 40 on site and these were delivered directly to members of Our Lady of Hope parish serving many refugees and immigrants on the West Side of Buffalo and to Felician Sisters Services food pantry on the east side of Buffalo serving many people who walk miles to procure food.
Our remaining bikes will continue to be repaired by our great partners; Wheels for Workers 716 who operate at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4001 Main Street, Eggertsville. Our parish mechanics put in many hours refurbing the bikes there. Once bikes are road worthy and safe they are delivered to our most needy and vulnerable neighbors throughout WNY. Bikes provide essential transportation to health care service, food pantries, jobs, ESL classes and much needed recreation.
The work and dedication of our friends at Wheels for Workers 716 has forged a terrific ecumenical effort with our parishioners John Aman and Doug Snyder leading the way.
This year we had some high school volunteers helping us; we certainly will expand that program next year.
Thank you to all who donated bikes!
