This release was issued under a previous government.

Offenders at the Calgary Correctional Centre have repaired 100 bicycles for kids in need

Under the supervision of correctional peace officers, offenders learn valuable skills while repairing old bicycles.

In addition to the 100 bicycles from the Calgary Correctional Centre, the Kiwanis Club of Calgary Chinook will donate its 5,000th bicycle to a child in need on July 24. Since the partnership began in 2000, most of the 5,000 bicycles have been repaired by offenders at the Centre.

“The Calgary Correctional Centre supports this program where offenders repair bicycles during their sentence. Children in need benefit by getting recreational equipment, bicycles are kept out of landfills and offenders are put to work while being accountable for their actions.”

Minister Jonathan Denis, Alberta Justice and Solicitor General

To help prevent crime by reducing repeat offences, work programs in Alberta’s correctional centres are used to develop skills to assist offenders in reintegrating into society when they are released. As part of this, sentenced offenders are assigned a job while they are incarcerated, unless they are excused for medical reasons.

“We appreciate the help of sources like the Calgary Correctional Centre. The bike program started out giving away 15 to 20 bikes and with the help of Alberta Corrections, the program has grown to giving away 300 to 500 bikes per year. This proud partnership has helped a lot of children and their families lead a healthier, happier life.”

Silvia Benavides, President, Kiwanis Club of Calgary Chinook

Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta's resources to ensure we're able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.
 

Editor’s Note: Join the Kiwanis Club of Calgary Chinook and correctional peace officers as they present bicycles to children in Calgary on Thursday, July 24, at 10:30 a.m. at the Kiwanis Club of Calgary Chinook Garage, 2840 25A Street S.W. The garage faces Richmond Road S.W., and additional parking is available at the Calgary First Mennonite Church on 2600 Richmond Road S.W.