On Wednesday, community members without access to transportation received E-Bikes to aid their mobility.

The University Area CDC, along with other partners, organized an initiative to support hurricane victims in the community. Six residents from the University Area were provided with E-bikes, which they’ve described as their new primary means of transport.

The aim of this E-Bike distribution is to address transportation hurdles for local residents.

“Providing these bikes will significantly speed up residents’ travel to essential places,” explained Dr. Sarah Combs.

Grow Financial teamed up with The University Area CDC to distribute the E-Bikes, helping individuals like Velicia Poole. For her, this E-Bike has become a vital asset.

“It’s a huge relief because I’ve been walking everywhere. I used a pull cart for groceries and laundry, but now I have a better solution,” Poole shared.

Dr. Sarah Combs, CEO of University Area CDC, noted that these bikes were put together during their 13th annual “Paint the Town” event.

“The University Area Community is designed for walking and biking, with most residents relying on these methods,” said Dr. Combs. “It’s crucial that we eliminate these transportation obstacles so our residents can reach their destinations easily.”

Poole expressed gratitude for the E-Bike, especially after enduring significant hurricane damage.

“Now, I won’t have to walk to the store every day,” she said, adding that the walk to her nearest store was over a mile one-way.

“Walking in the rain was the hardest part,” Poole added.

The six recipients took their new bikes for a spin, relieved they wouldn’t have to walk in the cold back home.

Dr. Combs confirmed that a total of 19 E-bikes will be distributed to assist more people in getting around more efficiently.

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(Image credit: WFLA)