15 Years of Mattapan on Wheels!
- mffcweb
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
By: Trinity Hodges | August 11, 2025
On July 26th, 2025 in Mattapan, MA, the Mattapan Food and Fitness Coalition (MFFC) hosted their 15th Annual Mattapan on Wheels Bike-a-thon. Starting at Ryan's Playground, groups of riders made their way out to bike three routes of varied difficulties. For families and beginner riders, there was an 8 mile ride out to Tenean Beach in Dorchester. For those that wanted a bit more of a challenge, they could choose from a 12 mile ride to Chapel Rocks in Quincy or a 20 mile ride to Castle Island in South Boston.
From left to right, photos 1 and 2 by Marilyn Humphries, photo 3 by Seth Daniel
This annual celebration of physical activity and alternative transportation has been a testament to all the work and efforts made by MFFC. Over the past 15 years, executive director, Shavel'le Olivier, has witnessed the improvement and extension of the Neponset River Greenway trail all the way into Mattapan. In her welcoming remarks, she also highlighted her own experience with taking these routes by bike 15 years ago.
"During our first Mattapan on Wheels, one of the stops was Ryan's Playground. As we were riding down River Street to the park, it felt unsafe with all the cars driving past." -Shavel'le Olivier, Executive Director
Photos by Marilyn Humphries
To go from riding to Ryan's Playground as a stop along the way to starting at Ryan's Playground to take the Neponset River Greenway Trail is just one of the many examples of the hard work done at MFFC and in the Mattapan community. This event hosted over 100 bikers and 27 volunteers who offered just one of many opportunities for physical activity in Mattapan.
From left to right photos 1 & 3 by Marilyn Humphries, photo 2 by Derrick Dera
If you showed up and showed out at Mattapan on Wheels, consider joining MFFC in the 2025 Ride for Food. Our goal is to raise $10,000 and every donation counts! We're looking to enhance our Food Access efforts and your contribution can truly make a difference.
The 2025 Ride for Food consists of two routes for bike rides and a 5k walk. Register here as a rider or walker and join us in our fundraising efforts by pledging to raise $350! Or if you're looking to donate, check out our team page and donate to either Kay Savage’s or Trinity Hodges’ member pages. Donations are tax-deductible and go towards a great cause. Let's stop food insecurity together!
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