BETHLEHEM, Pa. — For volunteers at Coalition for Appropriate Transportation, giving a bit of their time for the greater good is like riding a bike.
It’s something they won’t soon forget.
And in a more literal sense, CAT is sharing that with the public this Christmas season through a Holiday Bikes program.
It's offering no-cost, newly rebuilt cycles for children from families with financial hardship.
“We have had families from across the Lehigh Valley getting bikes for their kids. We hope it offers the young people a set of wheels for fun, freedom and healthy movement.”Coalition for Appropriate Transportation Executive Director Scott Slingerland
Through Dec. 24, and while supplies last, those ages 5-12 can get a free bike, helmet and proper training this Christmas.
Email cat@lvcat.org with the child’s height and weight and to arrange a pick-up, or call 610-954-5744 for more details.
“We have had families from across the Lehigh Valley getting bikes for their kids,” CAT Executive Director Scott Slingerland said.
“We hope it offers the young people a set of wheels for fun, freedom and healthy movement.”
Tires, brakes, saddles, streamers
CAT operates out of 1935 W. Broad St. in Bethlehem. The team plans to set up shop in a commercial space in the new Walnut Street Garage downtown when it’s up later in 2025.
By appointment, CAT Bicycle Cooperative hours include from noon-4 p.m. Tuesdays, noon-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Thursdays, and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
Individuals and businesses may sponsor Holiday Bikes, with donations covering the cost of parts and tools. Interested donors may leave their name and a holiday message to pass along to the bike’s new owner.
CAT welcomes monetary donations for associated supplies and even new volunteers, too.
About 30 volunteers have worked four days a week, October through December, to outfit the donated bikes for their new riders, Slingerland said.
He said about 85 bikes had been picked up so far, with a big rush expected Saturday morning. CAT looks to surpass last year’s number of 146 bicycles given away.
CAT is a 501(c)(3) non-profit advocating for alternative means of transportation, pedestrian safety and ADA access. The group holds group rides, bike maintenance classes and more.
