Cyclesmith collecting used bikes to give to Halifax refugees

Several Halifax organizations have joined forces to gather second-hand bicycles to give to refugee families.

On Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., people can drop off their old bikes at Cyclesmith'sshop at 2553 Agricola St.

Andrew Feenstra, co-owner of Cyclesmith, says they'll take anything that mostly functions.

"We'll expect everything and anything. We've already been receiving donations from people that can't make it on Saturday, but do have a bike and want to donate it to the cause," he said.

"It'll be everything: adult bikes, kids bikes, and we assume some will be in great shape, while others will be very well used."

Cyclesmith and the Halifax Cycling Coalition are gathering the donated bikes to give to refugees through theImmigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS).

ISANS says it hasbeen told by the federal government to prepare for an imminent influx of Syrian refugees. The Liberal government has promised to bring 25,000 to Canada before the end of the year.

Staying safe

Julian West of the Ecology Action Centre will lead a free safety course forthe bikes' new owners.

"The foundation of the program is to provide the very basic safety skills and knowledge so that people can ride on the roads in a safe manor," he said.

West said thebikes will open up the city for the newcomers.

"Not everybody can afford to travel around in a car. Gas is expensive and cars are expensive to buy. Cycling is a very accessible option for a lot of people."

Volunteers willbe able to make minor repairs, but they aren't looking for bikes needing major work.

Bikes that don't get matched to a new owner will be donated to Bike Again or the Dalhousie Bike Centre.