TAMPA, Fla. — Something as simple as a bicycle can make a big difference in a person's life.

Tim Eves and Tom Henry are co-founders of Bikes from the Heart, an organization that distributes bikes to those without reliable or affordable transportation.

The pair said the need for easy traveling is far greater than many realize.

“People need to get around, and if they don’t have a car, a bicycle is a perfect choice,” Henry said.

The organization gathers up old abandoned bikes, or ones impounded by police.

Some are used for parts on other bikes, while others just need a little maintenance.

Henry said since starting in July, more people have joined in their mission and production is skyrocketing.

“Took us about three months to get to 100,” he said. “Three months since then, we’ve produced another 300 or 400 bikes. We’re ramping up. I think we can easily hit 1,000 this year.”

The volunteers working at the shop have a passion for repairing bikes. Eves said it amazes all of them when they see someone utilizing a bike who really needs one.

“We see them a week later and they’re out looking for a job or they come up here and help us,” Tim said. “Now they’re getting around and they’re doing things and it’s making them happy.”

Every Sunday, at the Portico in Tampa, they give the bikes to the public.

So far, around 200 bikes have been distributed. They have bikes for adults and children.