Here at Po Campo, we know that a bike can be so much more than a way to get from point A to point B - the freedom, joy and community that goes alongside bike riding can quickly become a tool for positive change. Few people embody this spirit better than Renee, a long-time Po Campo customer whose passion for biking and community service sparked an inspiring initiative: Food Rescue by Bike. What started as a simple conversation at a local community hub has grown into a powerful program delivering hundreds of pounds of food to those who need it most, all by bike.
We caught up with Renee to learn more about how she turned her idea into action and how her love for biking continues to make a difference.
Hi Renee,
Thank you for your interest in being one of our customers in the spotlight!
Firstly, tell us a little bit about the food delivery by bike that you do.
At the time I was working at Washington Area Bicyclist Association and was looking for a space for our team meetings. I went to The Potter’s House and spoke with the executive Director. As we chatted she mentioned that they used to receive food via Food Rescue-DC but since the pandemic she lost a few people and didn’t have anyone to collect the food. I had an idea that perhaps the bicyclists I had access to could help. So, I contacted the executive director at Food Rescue -DC and pitched my idea. She loved it. For a month I tested a lot of rescues and discovered that many were bikeable.
We launched the Food Rescue by Bike program in conjunction with Food Rescue -DC. By the end of 2024, we had rescued over 700 pounds of food by bike.
It’s so great to hear the positive impact you’re having on your community, all from your bike! How do Po Campo bags help you with this initiative and which bag is your go-to for food rescue rides?
I ride a Rad Power City Bike and I used Orchard Grocery Panniers for a lot of my food rescues.
What’s your favorite thing about your Po Campo bags?
I love the thoughtfulness of the details in the bags. There’s pockets for almost anything you need. I also love the magnetic buckles on most of the bags. They are stylish and don’t look like the other bags which are often just a big hole. And although I often only buy the black bags, I love the patterns and colors of the bags. And the variety of bags - trunks, panniers, backpacks, handlebar bags. Maria has something for anyone.
Where are you based? And what do you like about riding in your city?
Washington, DC. We have a lot of bike lanes and great infrastructure. I enjoy biking here because driving here is expensive. Parking is limited and expensive so biking is a great option.
Why do you choose to get around by bike?
I started biking for 2 reasons. The first reason was that my mom was in the hospital after her first stroke and I went to visit her but parking was $22/ day. I decided to bike there and save that money instead. That began my love of biking in DC. The second reason was that I kept getting red light speeding tickets. I actually had a budget for them because I was getting so many. I decided to bike instead. I got an instant raise.
And lastly, what’s something interesting about you that you’d like to share with us?
I’m a Certified Sex Counselor working with couples over 50 who want to reignite the passion in their relationships.
Well Renee, thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions. It’s been a pleasure getting to know you and we can’t wait for the rest of the Po Campo community to get to know you too!
Renee's story is a powerful reminder that small ideas can lead to big change - Po Campo was born from this very same belief. We're honored to spotlight people like Renee who show that every ride has the potential to do good. Whether you're commuting to work or delivering food to those in need, your bike can be a force for positive impact. Here's to many more miles and many more acts of kindness along the way!
To ride along with Renee and support Food Rescue by Bike initiative, follow her on Instagram @girlonbluebike
