Lappeenranta woman to cycle 300 km for low-income families

Maria Sipari of Lappeenranta will cycle 300 km in July’s Saimaa Cycle Tour to raise €10,000 for low-income families with children, Yle reports.

Sipari, a school assistant, decided to act after seeing the financial strain on families in her work. She will ride a 24-inch children’s bicycle due to her short stature.

Her fundraising began last year after a former pupil died in a traffic accident. She collected donations for the student’s funeral and now aims to support local children’s hobbies and daily needs.

“Breakfast at home is no longer a given for everyone. Some can’t afford ham or cheese for their bread,” she said.

Sipari’s team has grown from 12 to over 30 members. The city of Lappeenranta will help identify recipient families. Local businesses have also pledged product packages.

In 2023, she became the first person of short stature to complete the 62 km Finlandia ski race. She considers the 300 km cycle the greater challenge, having taken nearly 19 hours last year.

“Our cycling team has become like a second family. We encourage each other,” she said.