The Bike Project

The Bike Project is a wonderful initiative which continues to prove that solidarity and hospitality make our lives and communities better and more fun; I'm pretty sure that the refugee friends The Bike Project has made are a big reason for its success." What is the best thing about being a drop off point? "Seeing our refugee friends getting around on the donated bikes, the freedom and excitement cycling uniquely allows, just shows why it is a privilege to act as a drop off point. So do join up and play your part!" Do you have any advice for other centres thinking of becoming a drop off point? "Once the racks are installed or the storage arrangements fixed, being a drop off point does not call for too much effort - though, when you're preoccupied with something else, don't forget to give a big 'thank you' and smile to the donors!" Jon and the Finchley Reform Synagogue have supported The Bike Project for years, and recently became one of our Bike Hubs. Why did you decide to become a drop off point for The Bike Project? "As one of our main charity partners, FRS members have donated money towards The Bike Project for over 3 years. We also wanted to provide practical support to a charity that improves the lives of London's refugees and asylum seekers in tangible and sustainable ways. Being a drop off point in North London has allowed many more donors to give their unwanted bikes to this valuable cause." What's the best thing about being a drop off point? "So many bike donors are delighted that their once-loved machines will be put to such good use. When people bring in bikes with wheels falling off, broken brakes and rusty chains, they are amazed that we will still accept the donations, as we explain that their bike could be repaired, used as a training machine, or saved for spare parts. Most synagogues in London are surrounded by high fences and have regular visible security patrols. Although we wish to be a welcoming place, the necessary security steps sometimes give off a different impression. Many bike donors are stepping into a synagogue for the first time when they bring their bikes, and it is a great chance to have a friendly conversation and ensure those barriers are broken down." Do you have any advice for other centres thinking of becoming a drop off point? "It really is a simple, hassle-free way of making a big difference to the quality of people's lives in our city. The Bike Project team make it really easy to arrange pick-ups when our bike store is full. We sometimes have to turn away donors because there is no drop-off point near them, and they are unable to bring bikes to Finchley. The more drop-off points there are, the further reaching the project will become."