Melrose Man Helps Raise $200K For Homeless

Image: Christopher Powell and Anthony Guardia, HomeStart director of development, via O’Neill and Associates

Reps for HomeStart - a Boston-based anti-homelessness nonprofit - happily announced that its ICycle fundraiser at One International Place on Feb. 26 pulled down more than $200,000, crushing the previous year’s take of approximately $140,000.

“We want to thank all of our friends, supporters, and especially the brave riders who made this year our most successful ICycle yet,” said HomeStart Chair of the Board Christopher Powell, of Melrose, on the event’s Crowdrise site.

The organization notes that more than 300 cyclists joined in for the all-day outdoor spinning session. Celebrities who donated their time and calories included Kerry J. Byrne of the Boston Herald, sports writer Alice Cook, Wally the Green Monster, and Pat the Patriot.

“While we know people had fun at the ICycle, we also hope they understand the important message behind it,” said HomeStart CEO Linda Wood-Boyle. ”One or two hours in the cold cannot compare to living without a home.”