CYCLING CROSS COUNTRY

More than 30 college students who are bicycling across the country this summer to support the cause of affordable housing are due to cruise into Coudersport sometime on Monday, traveling west on Rt. 6.

The 32 riders are with Bike & Build. They're due in Wellsboro on Sunday and will pedal over Denton Hill and stay overnight on Monday in Coudersport.

They dipped their tires in the Atlantic Ocean at Providence, R. I., and began their ride across the country, with an arrival date of Aug. 10 in Seattle, Wash.

"Pedaling to end poverty housing" is the mission of the five-year-old national campaign. Bike & Build last year passed the $1 million milestone in money raised.

A companion organization to the renowned Habitat for Humanity, Bike & Build funds projects planned and executed by young adults. At some of the stops, the cyclists will lay down their bikes and pick up hammers and saws to assist in home construction projects.

In addition to meeting housing needs and educating the public about the issue, Bike & Build also seeks to instill in its members a commitment to leadership and philanthropy. Each of the 32 cyclists had to raise at least $4,000 to qualify for the trip.

A support crew rides along with spare bicycle parts, a first aid kit and other supplies. Many churches and Habitat for Humanity groups are lined up to welcome the riders and provide shelter and meals.

Majority of this year's proceeds are reserved to fund a student-built Habitat for Humanity home in Providence.