Local children and youth receiving services through the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent (CTC-CK) can now experience the joy, independence, and physical activity that comes with riding a bike.
The Children’s Treatment Centre’s has received new adaptive bicycles for its Freedom Riders Adapted Bicycle Loan Program, a program that allows families to borrow a bicycle to use at home each summer.
The CTC-CK said some bicycles are also loaned to local schools during the school year, extending the impact of the program throughout the community.
Councillors Brock McGregor and Amy Finn donated the money for the bikes through their Hydro One Councillor Ward Funding Program.
“Every child should have the opportunity to experience the freedom and fun of riding a bike,” said McGregor. “This funding helps remove barriers and gives local children and families access to adaptive equipment that allows them to participate alongside their peers. I’m proud to support a program that creates meaningful opportunities for children of all abilities right here in Chatham-Kent.”
Councillor Finn said she's happy to help expand access to inclusive recreation opportunities at the CTC-CK.
“Programs like Freedom Riders show what is possible when our community comes together to create more inclusive opportunities for children and youth,” Finn said. “These new adaptive bicycles will help more families enjoy time together, stay active, and experience the independence that comes with riding a bike. I’m pleased to support the continued growth of this important program.”
The program’s fleet includes specialized bicycles with adaptations and built-in features designed to meet a variety of physical and developmental needs.
The Children’s Treatment Centre Foundation is thanking Hydro One and the councillors for helping more local kids experience the freedom of riding, adding the new bikes will help meet the ongoing demand for adapted recreation equipment in Chatham-Kent.
