Because of the great people in the communities we live in, Bikes for Kids has been able to increase the number of children they serve every year. Since their beginning in 2020, they have served over 700 children with a free bike and helmet. Currently, they are developing partnerships with local school systems to identify deserving children and plan on serving more than 450 children during 2023.

Their mission of providing free bikes and helmets is vital to insure a happier and healthier childhood for the many deserving children in Marshall County.

Marshall County statistics show why their mission is so important:

• 12% of all households live in poverty.

• An additional 26% of households are classified as ALICE Families. (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed)

• Over 2,700 Children in Marshall County qualify for a bike through their charity.

In 2020 and 2021, Bikes for Kids were fortunate to have the cost of the helmets covered by a local group of medical professionals. However, this group decided not to continue funding in 2022. Their decision forced Bikes for Kist to use a significant portion of their reserve funds to cover the $3,500 shortfall.

Chip Dean, President of the organization said, “We are blessed with individuals, companies, and civic organizations who choose to support our mission. However, as the number of children we serve each year grows, so does our need to increase our fundraising to support these additional children.”

A team of dedicated volunteers is working hard every week refurbishing bikes. These volunteers have already refurbished over 300 bikes this year and are ready to support the 2023 Give Away Projects. However, Bikes for Kids needs to raise $5,000 to cover the cost of new helmets.

Dean is hoping the community donors will choose to invest in the local, underserved children and the Bikes for Kids mission. All donations are tax-deductible and will help serve additional children at one of their 2023 Give Away events.

Chip Dean said, “We simply cannot do it without you. Together, we can help improve the quality of local, deserving children’s mental and physical health. Please support these children in need by going to http://bikesforkids.net/store to donate.

You can also mail checks to Bikes for Kids, Inc. 19329 6B Road Plymouth, IN 46563.