Tern and partners provide cargo bikes to families and essential workers in Ukraine. In total, 60 Tern Short Haul cargo bikes have been donated to provide essential transportation for families, aid workers, and local service providers.
In an effort to support resilience in communities affected by the ongoing Ukrainian conflict, 60 Tern Short Haul cargo bikes have been donated to provide essential transportation for families, aid workers, and local service providers. Now being distributed in cities like Chernihiv and Oleksandriya, these bikes will serve as vital tools for those dedicated to rebuilding and sustaining daily life under the challenging conditions.
“The people of Ukraine have been astoundingly brave and resilient in the face of daunting obstacles,” stated Tern Team Captain Josh Hon. “We want them to know that they are not forgotten and that we support them. We hope that our cargo bikes can make daily life a bit easier.”
Cargo Bikes Make a Difference
Chernihiv, a historic city in northern Ukraine, has endured severe hardship as one of the first areas to face siege and bombardment. Damaged infrastructure, limited resources, and unreliable energy supply have made travel by auto difficult, while bicycles, especially cargo bikes, have become vital. With the ability to transport passengers and goods, these bikes are invaluable for families rebuilding their homes, parents needing to take children to distant schools, and essential workers in healthcare and other fields.
The rugged Tern Short Haul cargo bike was chosen for its simplicity and reliability. It runs on pure muscle power and features durable, easily replaceable components. Easy to ride and capable of carrying up to 50 kg on the rear rack and 20 kg in the front, the Short Haul can immediately impact the local communities.
Delivery of essential supplies to refugees
In Oleksandriya, a city sheltering hundreds displaced by the war, a humanitarian aid center has begun using 10 donated bikes to deliver essential supplies to refugees. In Chernihiv, bikes were prioritized for families with children, and for essential workers who chose to stay during the heaviest fighting, even as some lost part or all of their homes and workplaces due to shelling.
“While the war has damaged the lives of the locals, their spirit remains strong,” stated Michael Roffler, Head of Swiss NGO Pro Ukraïna. “Life goes on, just at a slower pace. These cargo bikes will help people rebuild their lives, empower essential workers, and bring moments of respite and joy to local families.”
In Memoriam, Thomas Loesch
This project holds special, bittersweet meaning for all team members at Tern, as it was championed by Thomas Loesch, a long-time, cherished member of the design team who passed away this August. Although logistical and safety concerns delayed the project, Thomas’ perseverance pushed it forward, allowing him to see the bikes eventually reach the communities that needed them most.