Volunteers are preparing for an annual tradition all about giving: Bikes for Mission Arlington. The tradition started 13 years ago with just a handful of people, and has since grown into a huge event where hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of people donate bicycles to people who need them.
Donors will meet tomorrow at 9 a.m at 2229 W. Park Row Dr. in Pantego. From there, they’ll travel together to Mission Arlington.
"It's pretty exciting," says Tillie Burgin, the nonprofit's Executive Director. "It's kind of like our own parade we get to have. Hundreds of cars and bicycles and trucks will be coming this way. They're honking and waving and our Mission Arlington volunteers are waiting to receive those bikes."
Burgin says there is a huge need for bikes and helmets of all sizes, and even though the pandemic could affect tomorrow’s turnout, she’s still hoping people will donate. If you don’t feel comfortable joining the caravan, Burgin says volunteers can come pick up donations from your house. Safety measures are also in place to make sure the event runs as safely as possible.
"They're doing it right and doing it well," Burgin says. "I think if everybody feels safe, we'll still have a good turnout."