Veurne is the fourth city in (West-)Flanders to launch such a project, following Menen, Ostend, and Poperinge. Free Wielie is a collaboration between the City of Veurne and beweging.net, with support from Leader Westhoek. The project aims to address transport poverty by offering bicycles as a valuable alternative to people who do not own a car or cannot reach their work, education, or other appointments by public transport.
The rental service specifically targets people in poverty and individuals for whom owning or cycling is not easy. At its launch, Free Wielie Veurne already has 50 bicycles. The branch is located next to the Fietsbieb (rear of WZC Ter Linden) in a building provided by the City of Veurne.
The project was made possible thanks to financial support from Leader Westhoek region, a European subsidy program. Flanders and the province of West Flanders also contribute financially. Leader's goal is to promote the development of rural areas.
The adult bicycle rental service is open every first Tuesday of the month from 5 PM to 7 PM. Potential borrowers primarily find their way to Free Wielie through collaborations with the OCMW (Public Centre for Social Welfare), poverty organizations, and asylum seeker reception centers in the region.
Anyone with a bicycle in good condition they no longer need can donate it to Free Wielie. Extra helping hands are also always welcome.
