Backstreet Bikes, Inc. is a nonprofit in Snow Hill, Md., that collects used bikes, refurbishes them and gives the upgraded bikes at no cost to those in need of transportation on the Lower Shore. Backstreet Bikes received a grant of $1,338 from the Choptank Trust last fall to purchase bike parts and safety items that are included with every donated bike. 

Some examples include bike helmets, racks, safety lights and vests, locks, tubes, tires and chains. Bikes are given to children, teenagers and adults of all ages; many who use the bike as their main source of transportation.

“We support the maintenance of the bikes that have been given out and upgrade children to a larger bike when the time comes, if needed,” shares Stephanie Hawley, President of Backstreet Bikes. Stephanie’s husband Chris is the Chief Bike Mechanic for Backstreet Bikes, and the two are passionate about helping their neighbors be more mobile in the community. 

“Giving bikes also improves the health of our community by encouraging exercise, and it saves bikes from sitting in the local landfills,” adds Stephanie. 

Backstreet Bikes has provided more than 100 bikes since creation in 2021. Learn more about how you can volunteer and donate at  backstreetbikes.org.

The Choptank Trust, a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation, awards organizations and individuals in all nine counties on the Eastern Shore with funds from Choptank Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up program. View recent awards below and learn more at choptankelectric.coop/operation-round-trust-fund.