New bicycles help build great neighbourhood

On August 14, thirty-three children living in the West-end community of Swansea Mews received new bicycles and helmets, thanks to an ongoing green- and healthy living partnership between the Dutch Consulate General and Toronto Community Housing.

“This is a great partnership in that it promotes physical fitness and a green way of life, both of which are central to Dutch culture,” said Johan Kramer, Dutch Consul General. “It also extends a hand to those in need letting them know that there are people here to help.”

The presentation, held in the outdoor recreation area of the townhouse complex, marked the culmination of the third annual Go Green, Go Dutch, Go Bike!, an environmental awareness and fund-raising bike ride. Over the first two years of the partnership, 20 children in Lawrence Heights and 25 children in Chester Le received new bicycles and helmets.

This year’s ride, from Old Mill/Bloor Street (Etienne Brulé Park) to Nathan Phillips Square back in May, raised $4,000 toward the purchase of the bicycles, helmets and locks.

With the majority of the 154 households in the community having children eligible to receive a bicycle (between 6 to 16 years), those interested were asked to submit a brief essay on what community safety means to them and how Toronto Community Housing and tenants can work together to make Swansea Mews a better community.

“Community safety means having a place where everybody could play and enjoy themselves,” wrote 10-year-old bike recipient, Jayson Frimpong.  “Getting a bike would really make me happy. Every day I would wake-up and be grateful it’s there.”