The Winnipeg community is stepping up for cyclists crossing Canada for charity after their bikes were stolen.

The two cyclists, Val Duquenne and Thomas Clark, are on a cross-Canada journey, and their bikes were stolen from downtown Winnipeg during one of their stops. After learning the unfortunate news, the local community, including businesses and generous residents, donated thousands of dollars so the cyclists could buy new bikes and continue their journey if the stolen ones were not found.

The cycling duo is cycling across Canada to raise money for men’s mental health. The cyclists from New Brunswick started their Men Don’t Ride Alone trek in North Sydney, N.S., on June 22, with the goal of reaching Victoria in September. They have raised $6,500 for Movember Canada so far, with a goal of raising $250,000.

Despite having their bikes stolen, the two friends are determined to finish their journey. The generous donations from the Winnipeg community are helping the cyclists continue their ride to Victoria while raising funds for Movember Canada.

The bikes, which were stolen from downtown Winnipeg, were worth around $15,000 and were donated to the cyclists by their community. The overwhelming support from the Winnipeg community has shown that one bad incident does not define a city when so many people are willing to help others.

Source: Darren Bernhardt, CBC