While trying to obtain employment and housing, one huge hindrance for a veteran can be means of transportation.

Thankfully, Cornerstone Lutheran Church is wanting to change that. In April, the church donated 25 bikes to HVAF, with plans to bring 25 more bikes soon.

“The idea is to promote the good of what HVAF is doing for our homeless veterans and our Cornerstone Lutheran Church Military Ministry wanted to help them out by providing bicycles for the veterans who do not have other means of transportation,” Sandy Hughey, church member and event organizer, said.

According to Brian Copes, President and CEO of HVAF, these bikes will help their veterans have a necessary means of transportation.

“For many of our veterans, a bicycle means independence and employability. Transportation is a critical necessity most people take for granted,” Copes said. “For veterans just regaining self-sufficiency, a
vehicle is often unaffordable so providing a high-quality bicycle broadens the range of job options and improves their quality-of-life by expanding access to grocery stores, retail outlets, recreational areas and activities, medical appointments, and – perhaps most importantly – friends and family. It’s not ‘just a bike’ – it’s life.”