A Steveston resident and cyclist plans to cycle for 24 hours to help put food on the table for families in B.C.
Steveston Velo cycling club member Ben Nickerson is hosting a virtual food drive to support Food Banks BC.
After competing in the recent 348-kilometre Whistler Gran Fondo Triple Crown Forte bike ride, the 50-year-old is challenging himself to ride more than 500 kilometres within 24 hours around Iona Beach Regional Park starting 8 p.m. on Oct. 12.
Nickerson said that food security in his community is an issue he cares deeply about.
"Over the past few years, I have witnessed the rapid increase in the number of families that rely on the Richmond Food Bank, however, donors who have consistently supported food banks in the past are also feeling the effects of rising food costs, and may not be able to offer the same level of support as in previous years," said Nickerson.
"For Thanksgiving, I wanted to start a ripple effect to encourage others to join in supporting this important cause and felt that completing a cycling challenge was the best platform to achieve this."
He is encouraging other cyclists to join him, for a portion or the full length, for the cause and is asking for donations from the community through Food Banks BC.
Donations will help children, families, seniors and individuals who have lost their jobs and anyone who needs a bit of help.
Online donations are tax deductible.
To support Nickerson, click here.
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