18 Jul 2014 PPA gives back to the community in aid of Mandela Day
More than 200 cyclists from in and around Masiphumelele near Fish Hoek received an early morning surprise to help keep them safer on the roads when the Pedal Power Association’s ‘Safe Cycling’ team handed out much needed ‘safe cycling items’ that included helmets, reflectors and lights to commuters on their way to work, in aid of Mandela Day.
The Pedal Power Association’s Safe Cycling campaign that kicked off in 2011 to raise awareness around the safety issues of all cyclists, receives an annual income from the Cycle Tour which passes through the area. The Association uses some of the funds to assist local communities with development projects and various cycling-related initiatives.
In the past two years, the Association handed out helmets and lights to cyclists in the greater Cape Town area on six occasions. “As an integral part of our local safe cycling program, the Pedal Power Association gives back to the community to assist with the safety of cyclists who cannot afford helmets by making sure they have helmets and that their bicycles are visible to motorists when taking to the roads,” says Stephen Hayward, chairman of the Pedal Power Association.
The commuters eagerly cued up to receive a free helmet and to have a light and reflective tape fitted which is essential to visibility during the dark winter’s mornings. Local Masiphumelele resident, Leonard Mashaba said, “I am so very grateful because I cannot afford to buy a helmet. I cycle every day, going to Fish Hoek, Lakeside and Simon’s Town to work but use my money to buy food for my family.”
Staff members from the Pedal Power Association enthusiastically assisted the cyclists, lending a helping hand to pick out the right size helmet and to fit lights and reflectors onto the bikes.
“It was really cold and dark when we got here this morning, but we are thrilled to have been able to contribute 67 minutes towards Mandela Day, ensuring that at least 200 cyclists are now safer on the road,” said PPA General Manager Karin Pohl. “We also sincerely thank Inspector Noel Saayman and his team from the traffic department who assisted us.”
“South African roads are public spaces and people have the right to ride their bicycles on them but they need to take safety precautions. It is against the law not to wear a helmet. For all these early morning commuters, cycling is the only means of transport to and from work. It is gratifying for the Pedal Power Association to donate these lifesaving items to the local community,” said Hayward.
