New Bedford Students Donate Bikes for Immigrant Transportation – wbsm.com

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — Due to the recent transportation challenges immigrants in the community have faced, students at Youth Opportunities Unlimited (Y.O.U.) have collaborated to find a solution for easy mobility options.

The initiative aims to support the transportation needs of immigrants in the community.

Over the past year, Y.O.U. has launched a Community Bike Shop on Rodney French Boulevard in New Bedford that operates out of the West Beach boathouse. The shop is to provide youth in Greater New Bedford with access to and training in bicycle maintenance and repairs.

Since then, numerous bicycles have been refurbished and donated to children within the community.

Each person who received a donated bike also received a bike lock and helmet donated by Senator Mark Montigny’s Children’s Fund.

Last year, Y.O.U. and Community Economic Development Center donated 13 bicycles to newly immigrated community members. This year, they hope to reach even more people and make a greater impact.

Better transportation for immigrants will enhance their mobility and enable more accessible access to essential services, employment opportunities and educational services.

“We are so excited to collaborate again with Y.O.U. to distribute bicycles to newcomer adults,” noted Corinn Williams, Director of CEDC. “These bicycles will be so beneficial to ride to work, shopping and recreation. Now that the weather is getting warmer, riding bicycles is also a great way to discover the city’s neighborhoods, parks, and beaches.”

The Community Bike Shop welcomes the public for youth bike servicing and accepts donations.

Operating hours are Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., starting April 20, with an additional day on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. throughout the summer.