by iNews
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by iNews
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By Dave Bradley
The School Bikes for Africa Appeal is back and the call has gone out for unwanted mountain bikes to be dropped off at local recycle centers. From there they will be refurbished by prisoners studying bike mechanics in Loughlan House Co Cavan before completing their journey to children in Africa.
A spokesperson for the Council said a bike for a child in Africa can be life changing and open up many opportunities for them, many of whom travel long distances on foot to get to school in searing heat. Having their own bike can make a huge in the life of a child and can also benefit other members of their family and their community.
The benefits of the scheme don’t stop there as the prisoners involved in the refurbishment project can then study for a City & Guilds FETAC Bike Mechanics qualification. This can help with their rehabilitation into society and may open up future job opportunities for them. There is also the satisfaction gained by all parties involved in this charitable project
The Letterkenny rotary club is organizing the appeal in Donegal and are looking for donations of sturdy mountain bikes with a minimum wheel size of 24” that can be dropped off at any of six recycling sites in the county.
According to Rotary President Robert O’Connor: “Having drop off points throughout the county, facilitated by Bryson Recycling, has made the collection of the bikes much easier.”
Donegal is one of 11 counties involved in the scheme and is also supported by Donegal County council. Cathaoirleach, Cllr Martin Harley said that the councils involvement in the appeal was ‘a no brainer’ and described the campaign as ‘such a positive one’.
To date Rotary has transported over 5000 bikes to Africa.
The following types of bicycles are suitable for donation;
- Strong sturdy bikes that can withstand rough terrain,
- Bikes to suit both primary and secondary level students, with a minimum of 24”wheel size,
- In reasonable repair,
- And having mountain bike type tyres
For recycle centre opening hours visit www.brysonrecycling.org
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