IRC-LA Introduces its New Bicycle Program!

IRC in Los Angeles is proud to introduce a new bicycle program! Jonathan Green from the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition and Cyclists Inciting Change thru LIVE Exchange (C.I.C.L.E.) generously donated six bicycles and helmets for our refugee clients, with more donations to come.

Many clients cannot afford cars or driver’s education training, and a logical mode of transportation for them is bicycling. Thus, the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition and C.I.C.L.E.’s donations are truly beneficial to our clients as they use their new bicycles to travel to job interviews, medical appointments, immigration appointments, and the workplace.

On Wednesday, July 6th, our bike co-op partners provided an informational session for clients about bike maintenance and safety. Bicycles and helmets were distributed to those in attendance. Dan Dabek, Director of C.I.C.L.E., introduced the bicycling fundamentals. He explained how to safely ride a bike in the streets and reviewed appropriate hand signals. He showed attendees the different parts of a bike and taught them how to fix the brakes if they malfunction.

Immediately following the workshop, Mr. Dabek led the attendees to the IRC parking lot, where they were able to practice riding their newly acquired bicycles.

On behalf of the International Rescue Committee in Los Angeles and our clients, we would like to thank the LA County Bicycle Coalition and C.I.C.L.E. for providing affordable transportation that allows clients to travel to crucial appointments while simultaneously promoting an environmentally friendly means of transportation around Los Angeles.