What Fits in a Bag

Nobody at the Maplewood Bike Shed works in child welfare. They repair bikes. They true wheels. They adjust seats and make sure helmets fit just right.

But they understood something important about the children CASA Essex serves: when a child enters foster care, they often leave home carrying only what fits in a bag. A bicycle is rarely one of those things. And with every move, some of the simple joys of childhood are left behind.

So, the Maplewood Bike Shed did what they do best.

This year, they provided brand-new bicycles and helmets to children served by CASA Essex, each one carefully fitted, adjusted, and ready for its next adventure.

A bicycle doesn't change the outcome of a court case or determine where a child will ultimately call home. But while the child welfare system takes months, sometimes years, to decide the outcome of their case, a bicycle offers something immediate: the freedom to ride, explore, and the chance to simply be a kid.

That spirit is at the heart of CASA's work. Our volunteer advocates stand beside children through some of the most difficult moments in their lives, helping ensure they have a voice, stability, and hope for the future. Partnerships like this remind children that while adults work toward permanency, childhood doesn't have to be put on hold.

Our heartfelt thanks to the Maplewood Bike Shed for sharing your talents, your generosity, and your belief that every child deserves the chance to experience the simple joys of growing up. Those bicycles are more than gifts—they are reminders that an entire community is cheering these children on.

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This event was featured in Matters Magazine “Changing the Lives of Foster Children" by Amy-Lynn Cramer. Read the full article here - Summer2026