Two nonprofits have teamed up to make it easier for students in East San Jose to get to school.
Good Karma Bikes is partnering with YMCA Silicon Valley to provide third through fifth grade students in the Berryessa Union School District with bicycles, many of whom have a longer distance to travel after the closure of three elementary schools this school year. The students are part of the YMCA Expanded Learning Program at Noble Elementary School. JPMorgan Chase also stepped up, gifting students backpacks filled with school supplies. There are about 6,000 students enrolled in 10 schools throughout the district.
The idea came together following the school closures and the nonprofit’s concerns there would be an increase in absenteeism with students finding it difficult to attend schools further away. It’s part of the “Brake the Cycle of Absenteeism” campaign. The bike shop is donating 50 bicycles to former Toyon Elementary School students…