In a world where empathy knows no borders, one woman's journey from a medical mission in Ukraine to a life-changing mission of her own is a tale that captivates the heart. This is the inspiring narrative of a woman who, with the simple gift of two wheels, is reshaping the lives of refugees and redefining the meaning of hope.

 

Marti Ford’s story began 25 years ago when her deep admiration and love for the Ukrainian people ignited. She had the unique opportunity to serve in Ukraine with a medical team, an experience that stayed close to her heart for years to come.  Home in Topeka, Marti continued her work until retiring in 2017 from St Francis hospital, after many years of dedicated service.

 

When the first refugees began coming to Topeka in 2022, naturally Marti was there to help, but her method was unexpected.  While assisting with transportation, Marti’s thoughts went to the unused bikes in her own home.  Immediately she knew those very bikes, while unused by her, could potentially mean independence and freedom to the refugees.  On September 3, 2022, Marti gave away her very first bike to a Ukrainian refugee.  A simple act, but one that carried with it the promise of change and opportunity.

 

“Every refugee needs a bike”, occupied Marti’s thoughts, and fueled her actions the next few months, leading to a partnership with TCCP and a connection with the community.  After sharing her ideas with the Topeka Community Cycle Project, a non-profit whose mission is to broaden access to cycling in Topeka, they happily agreed to help. She then solicited for bike donations in the community, found bikes for new families as they arrived, and helped them go to the Cycle Project to get the skills they needed to maintain them.  Helmets were donated as well, and locks and lights came personally from Marti.

 

On Saturday, September 23, 2023, Marti donated two more bicycles, bringing the grand total to 60 bicycles given to Ukrainian refugees.  She witnessed first-hand the freedom the simple gift of two wheels can bring, and knows these bicycles are not just a means of transportation; they are vessels of hope, freedom, and transformation.

 

If you're interested in helping out or contributing to this cause, please email us at bicycleproject.topcitypromise@gmail.com. Marti's journey is a story of compassion, and together, we can make it a story of change.