Bikes for kids

Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer

The Okanagan Boys and Girls Club has launched a bike drive in the South Okanagan, with the goal of providing struggling families with bicycles.

"We work with a lot of families that struggle to make ends meet, so we've got this list of families that have indicated they need bikes," said Jennifer Anderson with the club. "For example, we are working with one where the dad recently had his bike stolen."

Anderson said Marcia Colville from Investors Group Penticton, a longtime supporter of the club, came up with the idea for the first ever Bikes for Kids event.

People are encouraged to drop off gently used bikes for kids and adults at Skaha Ford.

They are also accepting cash donations or cheques at the club office on Manitoba Street to provide helmets and locks for the families.

"It's the same sort of idea as our Christmas hampers but matching families up with donated bikes," said Anderson.

On April 15 the club will host a barbecue at Skaha Ford from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., where the bikes will be distributed.

"It has been a little slow to start," said Anderson. "But I think it's a great idea and I really hope we can get enough community support to help these families out."