Estonian-based micromobility operator Bolt has partnered with The Bike Project to improve transport and funding options for the UK’s growing refugee population.
The Bike Project is a charity that refurbishes second-hand bikes and donates them to refugees and asylum seekers in the UK.
With the charity’s waiting list for bikes growing all the time, Bolt has said it will provide free rides home for those who donate their bike.
The company will also establish ‘pop up’ donation hubs in each new city in which it launches, targeting five new cities in 2022. This will give Bolt’s customers the opportunity to make an in-app donation. All financial support given to The Bike Project will help fund its workshop, cycle programmes and ongoing operations.
In April this year, for Bolt’s upcoming launch into Manchester, riders can make an in-app donation over the “initial period” of the service’s operations, said the company.
Across 2022, the two companies are aiming to source an additional 1,000 bikes.
“Here at The Bike Project we’ve supported over 9,000 refugees to get access to bikes in the last 10 years,” said Jem Stein, Founder and CEO of the Bike Project.
“But we still have many more waiting for help. Our partnership with Bolt allows us to expand on our work in London and Birmingham, and take our organisation to more cities across the UK. We’re so excited to work closely with Bolt and get more bikes to more refugees, starting with our Manchester launch. So look out for a Bolt drop-off point coming near you soon. And remember, Bolt will help you by organising a ride home for free from your nearest drop-off location.”
Christian Berces, Director for Europe at Bolt, added: “Bolt exists to provide ‘on demand’ transport when you need it; one part of our community that needs that more than anyone right now are refugees and asylum seekers. The Bike Project provides refugees with vital help as they get themselves established and we hope this partnership will help their drive to improve social and economic mobility in many exciting ways.”
