‘Bikes for All’ looks for donations, volunteers

Feb 17, 2021

MATTAPOISETT — In anticipation of the Mattapoisett Rail Trail connection to Depot Street opening this year, Mattapoisett Recreation and the Friends of the Mattapoisett Bicycle and Recreational Path (the Friends) have teamed up to bring bikes to more families. This new initiative is called “Bikes for All.” The Friends are asking for donations of gently used bicycles, to be given to any town resident, of any age, who needs a bike. All bike sizes can be donated or exchanged.

The Friends are working with town officials to build a safe and welcoming bike path. The in-progress new mile of the bike path will connect Mattapoisett village to Fairhaven center and beyond. So, take a look in the corners of your garages and basements. Is there a bike that is no longer being used by your family? Or a child’s bike that has been outgrown? If so, dust it off and call at Jane Finnerty at Mattapoisett Recreation at 508-758-4548 for pickup.

Or, If you are handy and have some knowledge of bicycles, the friends are looking for volunteers. The Friends will be refurbishing the gently used bikes and are in need of volunteers who have the knowledge to help make this happen. Those interested can call Finnerty at 508-758-4548.

Those who would like to make a donation for the Friends to purchase or repair bicycles, can to send it to Friends of the Mattapoisett Bike Path, PO Box 1336, Mattapoisett, MA 02739. Donations must note that the contribution is for “Bikes for All.”

The Friends is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization, so contributions to the Friends for Bikes for Kids are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. The Friends will apply 100% of contributions toward the bicycles.

For other inquiries, contact Liz DiCarlo at 508-942-9343 or lizdicarlo@comcast.net. Or visit the Friends’ website at mattapoisettrailtrail.org.