More than 100 cyclists took to the roads around the Merrimack Valley and the Seacoast of New Hampshire in Emmaus’ 33rd Annual Cycle for Shelter on Sunday, September 19.
These cyclists to-date have helped raise more than $160,000 for Emmaus, surpassing the original fundraising goal of $150,000.
Cyclists participated in one of three routes: 62, 25 or 15 miles and each pledged to raise a minimum of $250 for Emmaus by October 1. Most riders have raised much more, said Gretchen Arntz, Emmaus’ Director of Philanthropy.
“It was amazing being together again on the campus of Northern Essex Community College after more than two years,” said Arntz. “It was wonderful to see many of our loyal supporters all gathered together to raise money to defeat homelessness.”
A group of cyclists also participated virtually, an option that was added after last year’s ride was forced to be held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Haverhill resident Hillary Benson, a member of the North Shore Cyclists team, spoke of how much she enjoyed the ride. The NSC team had 31 members participate and has raised more than $22,000.
“Thank you to all the volunteers,” Benson said. “We train for this all year and I am so excited to support an organization that does so much for our community.”
Emmaus thanks the more than 75 volunteers that spent their day supporting our amazing cyclists. Emmaus also thanks the event sponsors including our Presenting Sponsors, Honda North and Merrimack Valley Credit Union; our Volunteer Sponsor, Haverhill Bank; our Premier Bike Shop Partner, Riverside Cycle; and our Venue Sponsor, Northern Essex Community College.
In addition, many local businesses supported this event, as well as local restaurants Panera Bread, Plaistow, the Chicken Connection and Biggart’s Ice Cream, who donated food to the post-ride lunch. A complete list of our sponsors can be found on the Cycle for Shelter event website at events.emmausinc.org/cycle21.
Emmaus will hold its 34th Annual Cycle for Shelter next year and more information will be available in January.