Cooperative Effort of City, County, Schools and Non-Profit Agencies Presents Free Bikes to Fourth Graders at Longfellow Elementary
Published: 5/6/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 6, 2025
Contact:
Phil Pitchford
Public Information Officer
951-826-5975
Cooperative Effort of City, County, Schools and Non-Profit Agencies Presents Free Bikes to Fourth Graders at Longfellow Elementary
RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Longfellow Elementary School fourth graders received free bicycles and bike helmets recently through a cooperative effort involving the City of Riverside and several community partners.
The students also benefitted from a safety demonstration from the California Highway Patrol. This program is an essential component of the City’s efforts to enhance mobility and independence for our youth.
“This is a very special day, and these bikes are fantastic,” Mayor Pro Tem Sean Mill said. “Learning to ride a bike safely and having your own bike can build your confidence, make you more independent, and of course it is a healthy way to get around.”
The City partnered with the Riverside Community Health Foundation, Riverside University Health System, California Highway Patrol, Riverside Community Services Foundation, Longfellow Elementary, Peddlepower bike shop, Blue Zones Project Riverside and other community groups to host the second annual “Every Kid Deserves a Bike” event.
Additional funding was provided through the County of Riverside’s District 1 Community Improvement Designation Fund.
“We want you to have these bikes because you are important, and it is so important to me and all the City leaders, your teachers and your families that you learn how to safely travel in the City and build this healthy habit of biking,” City Councilmembers Clarissa Cervantes said. “Many of you are a big brother or a big sister, remember to take good care of your bike to pass it on!”
Students were presented with a bike and helmet, which were fitted to their needs. Students and their families also had the opportunity to ride through a bike rodeo – an interactive bicycle safety training course provided by the CHP.
“Longfellow students and families are grateful for the generosity of our community members,” said Longfellow Principal Lisa Koss. “We value the support given to our scholars and their journey as they develop into responsible, safe, mobile members of Riverside.”
Event host organizations and other community groups staffed booths with light refreshments, stickers for personalizing their new bike and helmet, as well as other bike safety items.
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