The Habo Bike Project
Project update!
Check out Habo's video below to see how their project has progressed.
Project outline
The aim of this project is to collect second-hand bikes, repair them, and donate them to refugees who are in need of an affordable, environmentally friendly means of transport. The bikes will be repaired by a group of refugees and volunteers from the Jewish Community who will also engage in ‘cultural exchange’ activities in order for both groups to learn more about each other’s background and their common social goal: to make the planet fairer and greener.
How would the prize money be spent?
This project aims to be self-sufficient after two years. Initial funding is required to cover the start-up costs and the running costs for the first twelve months as, once the project is up and running, we will be able to cover our own running costs. The money would be spent on bike tools, spares, D-locks, lights, transporting second-hand bikes, and renovating the building that will be used for the workshop.
What impact will your project have?
Cycling is a very effective way of preventing climate change: it is sustainable, has clear health benefits, and is accessible to those of all abilities. However, like many green initiatives, it is difficult for socially marginalised and impoverished sections of society (such as refugees) to access as it is expensive. This project aims to make cycling and preventing climate change accessible to everyone.
What are the measures for your project's success and how will you monitor them?
The success of the project will be measured by its ability to achieve the following goals in its first year:
1. Providing refugees with a cost-efficient, environmentally friendly mode of transport: we aim to have 100 refugees on bikes with in 12 months of launching
2. The integration of refugees into British society by giving real-world skills. We aim to have trained 7 refugees in bike repair and maintenance skills.
3. The fostering of links between young Jewish community members and refugees. We aim to have run regular social activities which encourage links between the two groups
4. Educating young people about the right of asylum and the problems faced by refugees in Britain and about a common goal: creating a fairer and greener planet.
These goals will be re-evaluated after the first year.