PITTSTON TWP. — Sen. Marty Flynn this week said his annual bike donation event has grown to 2,000 recipients — nearly double last year’s event.
“To see this grow from where it started to where it is now is pretty incredible,” said Flynn, D-Scranton. “This is about making sure kids in our communities have something that’s theirs, something they can ride, take care of, and enjoy.”
Flynn hosted the bike donation event in partnership with a local nonprofit organization this week to prepare 2,000 bicycles for children across the 22nd Senatorial District, marking the largest year yet for the annual effort and nearly 1,000 more bikes than last year.
Inside a Pittston Township warehouse, rows of bicycles were lined up ahead of pickup by local schools, which will distribute the bikes directly to students in their communities throughout the week.
The event was held to support less fortunate families across the district and provide bikes to children who may not otherwise have access, helping expand transportation options for students in their communities.
Funding for the bicycles comes from It’s All About the Kids Bicycles Inc., a nonprofit organization that raises money year-round to support children and families.
Walmart served as the manufacturer for the bikes and has been a key partner in making the annual donation possible.
Flynn said the bike donation effort began several years ago with 100 bikes. It grew to 1,200 bikes last year and expanded to 2,000 bikes this year, reflecting the continued collaboration among nonprofit partners, schools, and community organizations serving the district.
“This year, we’re doing this in memory of Pete Sabia of Pete’s Garage in Dunmore, who was always a huge advocate for helping people in the Northeast Pennsylvania region,” Flynn said. “When schools are able to bring these bikes back to their students who are less fortunate, it means families don’t have to choose between necessities and something that brings their kids joy. We’re pumped about it, and it’s all thanks to the teamwork that helped make this happen.”
Sen. Flynn said schools will continue picking up bikes throughout the week for distribution to students across the 22nd Senatorial District.
