On Nov. 16, the HEAL Foundation presented $35,000 in trikes to ESE programs in schools all over Jacksonville and surrounding counties as part of its “Wheelin’ and HEALin’” initiative.
Members of the foundation stopped by Champion Cycling off Arlington Road in Jacksonville and presented 100 of the 250 trikes that are going to programs in St. Johns, Duval, Nassau, Clay and Baker County.
“Because of the challenges with the vestibular system, balance and coordination most ESE students are unable to master riding a two-wheel bike,” said HEAL Founder, Leslie Weed. “The trikes give students the opportunity to independently master riding, steering and navigating…plus they will experience the joy and excitement of riding a bike, perhaps for the very first time.”
Weed also mentioned that riding a bike will help improve physical fitness, learning development and mental health. She thanked all the donors who helped the “Wheelin’ and HEALin’” cause, along with Champion Cycling, who custom-built the trikes that were donated.