A Community Effort Through Bicycles
Tom Williamson’s garage is a treasure trove of cycling history. From old frames to tools and spare parts, every corner tells a story of restoration and purpose. This space is more than just a workshop—it’s the heart of the Ride Again Bicycle Ministry, an initiative that breathes new life into discarded bikes and gives them to those in need.
Williamson’s mission is simple yet powerful: to provide transportation solutions for individuals facing challenges such as homelessness, addiction recovery, or limited access to public transit. “One of the people who will get these bikes spends an hour and a half on a bus and then has a 30-minute walk once he gets off the bus, you know, to the end to get to work,” he shared with Channel 9. “And he does that every day.”
Over the past five years, this effort has grown significantly. The ministry has distributed 375 donated bikes, each one making a meaningful difference in someone’s life. For many recipients, the bike isn’t just a mode of transport—it’s a lifeline.
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“I gave a lady a bike, and she was telling me how she was getting to work already, and she was using an Uber,” Williamson explained. “So the first two hours she gets to work and starts working, those first two hours go to pay for her to get to and from work.”
These stories are not uncommon. The majority of those who receive bikes through the ministry are unhoused, living in transitional housing, or in recovery. For them, mobility can be a major barrier to employment, healthcare, and stability.
Victoria Robinson, who works with the Community Shelter of Union County, emphasizes the impact of having a bicycle. “Being able to have a bike makes it where they can get access to either better jobs. They can make it to doctor’s appointments, they can actually just go to job interviews,” she said. The shelter is one of several organizations that benefit from Williamson’s efforts, especially in areas with limited public transportation options.
Williamson himself is a passionate cyclist who saw an opportunity to give back. “That simple donation is— it will, it can change somebody’s life,” he said. His belief in the power of small acts of kindness drives his ongoing commitment to the ministry.
The Ride Again Bicycle Ministry continues to grow, and there are always ways to help. Donations of bikes, parts, or even time are welcomed by the organization. If you’re interested in contributing, you can reach out directly to learn more about how to get involved.
Through this initiative, Tom Williamson is proving that even the smallest actions can lead to significant change. Each restored bike represents a step toward independence, opportunity, and hope for those who need it most.
