An Opportunity to Empower Migrant & Refugee Children with Bikes for School

Freewheels Houston is working to provide new bikes for these students, who participate in PAIR Houston’s afterschool programs.

A safe, reliable bicycle can make a huge difference for young people making their way to school and back home in Houston, where the trip can be long and often hazardous. This is the case for 16 middle-school-aged refugees living in southwest Houston, where walking to school can take 40 minutes or longer.

We’ve set a goal of raise funds to purchase new bikes as well as locks, lights and helmets. We’ve enlisted bike commuters and other volunteers from Chevron and pharmacy residents from Houston Methodist Hospital to assemble the bikes. Freewheels volunteers will provide a safety briefing when the bikes are delivered.

“Do you remember the freedom that you enjoyed the first time you were able to ride your bike to school, the park and other destinations?” asked Bill Mintz, Freewheels Houston’s executive director and founder. “Young refugees and their families face unique challenges adapting to their new lives in Houston. These young people should have an opportunity to experience that same joy of riding.”

“Our students are motivated to learn. These bikes also will help our students develop a sense of freedom and responsibility,” said Abbie Drozek Fitzwater, director of PAIR’s middle school program. “We are grateful to Freewheels Houston, its volunteers and donors for providing bikes, helmets and locks as well as basic safety instruction that will help them get to school and back home safely.” 

Since its launch in 2015, Freewheels has provided bikes to more than 2,500 people–refugees, veterans and middle and high school students. Freewheels bicycles provide everyday transportation that enables people from underserved communities to get to work and school and stay healthy and connected.

PAIR helps over 350 refugee students each year through mentoring, tutoring, college access, and leadership development programs. Supported by committed volunteers and partnering organizations, students find safety and connection, academic support and enrichment, opportunities to lead and build skills and prepare for the future. With PAIR’s support, refugee youth build relationships, boost achievement, open doors, and inspire success.

In addition to the refugee middle school initiative, Freewheels plans to deliver bikes to 100 intermediate school students in the Alief Independent School District during the 2024-25 school year. School staff selects these students based on their superior attendance, improved academic performance, achievement of specific goals and other criteria.