HomeMy WebLinkAboutSubmissions for SJRE Grant Funding for FY 17How does the program, service or activity advance social justice or racial equity?
Please see previous response.
Why is there a need in this community for this program, service or activity?
Response should include information or data that demonstrates the need.
In a recent survey of 7th and 8th graders in Iowa City, six percent of students reported
riding their bicycle to school. When they were asked how they would prefer to get to school
the number jumps to twenty-five percent.
Bicycling is a terrific mode of transportation for junior high students because they have
more independence than younger kids, but they are too young to drive. And providing
bicycles to low-income youth provides them with exercise and transportation to valuable
community resources.
It is well known that our community exhibits income disparities that correlate with race.
Our project will target low-income, youths – predominately Hispanic and African
American – at Town and Campus Apartments; Hilltop Trailer Park; Broadway, Arthur,
and Taylor streets, and Pheasant Ridge Apartments. These neighborhoods were selected
based on research conducted by the Iowa City Invest Health Committee that identified the
concurrence of three factors: 1) extremely low income neighborhoods, 2) where the
percentage of minorities is high, and 3) residents have disproportionately more health
problems (e.g. asthma, mental health).
Does the program, service or activity include partnerships or collaborations with
other organization(s)? If so, what organization(s)?
Yes, the partners include World of Bikes, Iowa City Bike Library, and the City of Iowa City
Police Department.
If applicable, explain the partnership or collaboration with the other
organization(s).
Due to volunteer constraints at the Iowa City Bike Library, Officer Schwindt reached out
to World of Bikes for help. This local bike shop offered to refurbish impounded bicycles for
free and only requests reimbursement for new parts installed. They estimate the average
cost for parts, lights, locks, and helmets will total $200 per bike. The bicycles will be
selected from the City’s impound by Mr. Harper and Officer Schwindt, who will manage
delivery to and from World of Bikes. The repairs will be completed during winter months
when the bike mechanics have time for pro bono work.
The Iowa City Bike Library is a valuable resource for low-income cyclists because they
‘loan’ used bicycles at affordable prices; they also have work benches where residents can
repair their bicycles and learn bike repair skills. For this project, the Bike Library will
provide a tour of their facility and teach program participants basic repairs like how to fix
a flat tire. This introduction to the Bike Library is something our participants can share
with their families and friends, which will further expand the impact of the program.
Staff with the City’s Neighborhood Services Division will provide coordination, reporting,
and reimbursement for the grant program.