Bike giveaway at Sun Youth

Nicolas Carpentier

After a winter that seemed to last forever, spring is finally upon us. Here at Sun Youth, this means one thing: it’s the beginning of Bicycle Month. Throughout May, various events will underscore this yearly tradition. Brand new bicycles will be distributed to deserving children on May 2 and on May 17, refurbished bikes will be handed out to underprivileged families as part of the “Recyc-a-Bike” promotion.

For the 25th consecutive year, an anonymous donor known to the public only as “Bikeman” will allow Sun Youth the distribution of about 60 new bicycles to youths whose actions have had a positive impact on their community or to young people who will have shown extraordinary courage when facing exceptional circumstances. Since last February, Sun Youth’s Bicycle Committee has received over 120 applications from which it will select the best candidates to be honored at the May 2nd ceremony. These exceptional children will also receive a protective helmet and bicycle lock.

Then on May 17, from 10am to 4pm, partners Houle Toyota and Sun Youth will team up with Musiqueplus/Musimax and Radio-Énergie to distribute some 450 refurbished bicycles that were donated by Montrealers last November and geared-up by Houle Toyota’s mechanics in their spare time throughout last winter. In May of 2007, this activity was a huge success and every single bicycle collected and refurbished by the Toyota dealership found its way into the hands of underprivileged Montreal families.

Bicycles of all sizes (children to adult) will be distributed on a first-come first-served basis to families pre-registered for the event. Volunteers from Musiqueplus/Musimax and Radio-Énergie will be helping out with this effort, and with a barbecue for everyone to enjoy. It’s all happening at Houle Toyota (12305 Sherbrooke East). There may still be spots available for families who wish to receive these free bicycles so people are encouraged to contact Sun Youth (514-842-6822) for further information.

From everyone here at Sun Youth, happy Bicycle Month and be safe on the roads and bike paths!