By Melinda McRostie | Project manager
On June the 3rd was World bicycle day which recognizes “the uniqueness, longevity and adaptability of the bicycle.
It is a simple, affordable, dependable, clean, and environmentally fit sustainable means of transport.
Updates from the OpenBike workshop in Mavrovouni refugee camp
Our busy bike repair station is buzzing with activity and success. People from the refugee community are coming to our station to not only get their bikes fixed but also learn how to repair them themselves.
Our mechanics are dedicated to teaching individuals how to fix common issues and perform regular maintenance on their bikes. From basic repairs to advanced techniques, our participants are gaining the confidence and expertise needed to keep their bikes in optimal condition.
The sense of accomplishment and pride they feel when they solve a mechanical problem themselves is truly rewarding to witness.
Numbers and details
On a weekly base, our mechanic team is fixing around 60 bikes. Our most fixed issues are the brakes, tires and the gears.
Our mechanic team is composed of one hired mechanic and four community volunteers who give their time and passion to our project and gain the skill of learning how to fix bikes. Our team members come from all around the world, such as Afghanistan, Somalia and Iran!
DONATE AND BORROW
By the beginning of July, we started a new initiative! Our “Donate and Borrow a Bike” campaign aims to get more bicycles on the road. Starfish fixes used bikes both in the camp and at OpenSpace in Mytilene town by upscaling old parts and making them road worthy.
By donating and borrowing one of our refurbished bikes to travel around on Lesvos you are helping sustain Starfish’s aim of more bicycles on the road, less pollution and better personal health.
Important to note is that World Bicycle Day is now associated with promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Together let’s create an awareness of sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation which is a human right, and the bike is sometimes the only means of transportation for the most vulnerable on the island.
In-kind donations are very welcome either new or old parts of bicycles
It is significantly important to mention that more bicycles on the road have a positive impact on the climate.
Thank you!
Have a great month and if you have a bicycle, keep those wheels turning!The bicycle belongs to and serves all of humanity.
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