The Bikes for Kids program has grown dramatically with numerous partners at the table across the mid Island. (Greg Nowik/Facebook)

By Spencer Sterritt

pedal to the metal

Bikes for Kids program building momentum in Nanaimo and mid island

Feb 16, 2020 | 7:51 AM

NANAIMO — The wheels are really rolling for a local organization providing free bikes for children in need.

Bikes for Kids has delivered nearly 650 bikes to children entering its fourth year. Already in January 2020, 30 bikes were delivered.

The road is now clear for major expansion after a luncheon last week which co-creator Greg Nowik said featured a “huge buy-in” from community organizations.

“They really understand now, after delivering 640 bikes, the value of this. Eventually we’d love to get to the point where we can do this all over Vancouver Island and put ourselves in a position where any kid who needs a bike will get a darn bike.”

The bikes donated to the program come from the Nanaimo RCMP’s pile of unclaimed cycles. The bikes are fixed up by trained professionals at Coal City Cycles and delivered to children.

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There is also a bike exchange program with the Canadian Tire in Nanaimo, which Nowik said dramatically increases the number of cycles donated. Each good bike received is exchanged for two or three brand new bikes at cost from the general manager of the store.

Any donations gathered go to the Nanaimo Brain Injury Association, who provides helmets at cost to boost safety.

“It’s pretty emotional to see the people getting involved in the program,” Nowik said. “It’s been a really heart-warming program and we’re proud of what we’re doing locally.”

— with files from Ian Holmes

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit