Welcoming Wheels gives donated bicycles to Syrian refugees

Several Halifax community groups and businesses have banded together to form the group, Welcoming Wheels, to provide newcomers to Nova Scotia with bicycles.

The group takes in donated bicycles from the community, repairs them, and gives them to refugees, along with training sessions on safety. Last fall, 175 bikes were collected, and over the winter, volunteers worked to fix them up.

"I feel like maybe we're helping some people who've come from a difficult situation, find a little bit more freedom and happiness in their life," said Adam Berry, one of the volunteers behind the project.

Bikes and training

On Tuesday, 25 Syrian refugees received a bicycle, helmet, and lock. They also received a three hour training session on bicycle safety. They were fitted for a helmet, and taught the rules of the road and some minor maintenance.

The project is a partnership between the Ecology Action Centre, Halifax Cycling Coalition, Cyclesmith, and Halifax Recreation. 

Between six and 12 volunteers spent every Friday night for two winter months, repairing the bikes to get them in shape.

'I am happy'

Victor Comeau, a volunteer, said it was worth it to see the children hop on a bike of their own. 

"It makes me feel good to know that they can have an opportunity to go out and have fun," Comeau said.  

Zayad Abynabbaot, 15, said he had a bike when he lived in Syria and he is looking forward to riding around his neighbourhood. 

"I am happy, very happy," said Abynabbaot.

Welcoming Wheels will continue to hold training sessions and bike giveaways throughout the spring and summer in areas where newcomers have settled.