Coming off of a successful distribution of bicycles to local farm workers, The Bike Kitchen and the Kingsville Community Centre (KCC) once again teamed up, this time offering free bikes to deserving local children.
Taking place in the parking lot at the Grovedale Arts & Culture Centre, a two-hour Saturday morning event saw children be given an opportunity to kick the tires on their bike of choice, with a total of 35 bicycles being given away by volunteers from the KCC and The Bike Kitchen.
Executive Director of the Kingsville Community Centre Kim DeYong and Ron Drouillard, Manager of The Bike Kitchen, shared their thoughts on the joint effort between their two organizations.
“We’re thrilled to partner with The Bike Kitchen once again – this time to support young families right here in Kingsville,” said DeYong. “A bicycle can be so much more than just a ride – it’s independence, healthy activity, and a way to connect with the community. This initiative reflects our mission to promote intergenerational engagement and well-being through meaningful local partnerships.”
Drouillard said, “This event is a great example of how communities can come together to make a real difference. By refurbishing donated bikes, we’re not only reducing waste, but also helping local kids experience the freedom and joy of riding a bicycle.”
With a demand evident from the May 31 giveaway, Drouillard said you can expect to see a similar county event sometime in the near future.
A hard-working crew that ensured that every kid would walk away with a bicycle. From left, Morgan DeYong, Lauren DeYong, Brad Nelson, KCC Executive Director Kim DeYong, Rob Luby, Jan Fisher, Ilona Thibert and The Bike Kitchen’s Amalia Vacratsis.
SUN photo by Paul Forman
