The WOW—Wheels for Workers program provides loaner bicycles for visiting international workers. The program is a project of the First Congregational Church Outreach Group. Rick Schubert and Jerry Lilja repair a tire for a WOW bike.
Last Saturday afternoon, Mariza Andouska of Macedonia, the first of several summer season international workers arriving to work on the North Shore, showed up at the First Congregational Church in Grand Marais to pick up a loaner bike for her summer use. The bike is available through a program called WOW (Workers on Wheels), which is sponsored by the church as one of its outreach activities.
The bikes are available for the worker’s entire employment time in Grand Marais. Workers who accept bicycles are asked to make a refundable $40 deposit for each donated and reconditioned bicycle.
Church and community members are encouraged to donate usable bikes and monetary support for the summer project. The bikes are reconditioned by church volunteers and parts purchased through donations and support of the Superior North Bike shop. Minor repairs and adjustments will be provided throughout the summer.
Over 25 additional bikes are still available for the workers. A waiting list is also available for possible future needs. In addition, more good-condition bicycles will be accepted, along with funds to support repair costs.
Further questions and details regarding the project can be answered by contacting the First Congregational Church office at 387-2113.
It is hoped the project will be ongoing and a good addition to the church’s end-of-the-season social gathering for the young workers. Both projects are coordinated by Rick Schubert of the Congregational Church Outreach Committee.
Leave a Reply