The Budapest Bike Maffia operates in Hungary, addressing pressing societal issues such as homelessness, social apathy, and prejudice. Hungary has faced challenges related to poverty, social exclusion, and the stigmatisation of vulnerable groups, particularly the homeless. In this context, public and institutional support for marginalized populations has often been limited, creating an urgent need for grassroots initiatives to fill the gap.

The main challenge for the Budapest Bike Mafia lies in sustaining its resources, overcoming societal stigma, and addressing the complex, multifaceted nature of social issues like homelessness and poverty.  

The Budapest Bike Mafia, established in 2011, emerged from a desire to address social apathy. Initially focused on collecting and distributing food donations to the homeless via bicycle visits, the organisation has evolved significantly. With a growing number of volunteers, they have initiated various projects to combat homelessness and prejudice. Diverse programs go beyond primary assistance, encompassing awareness-raising initiatives, school programs for sensitization, community building, and volunteer promotion. The Budapest Bike Mafia employs a creative and innovative approach, recruiting and deploying numerous volunteers to institutional care and supporting other civil organizations. Social sensitisation, particularly among young people, is a significant focus, aiming to break down prejudices and explore new solutions in the social environment.

Budapest Bike Maffia collaborates with corporate companies in two ways:  

• Through philanthropy giving, or in-kind support to their diverse actions

• By offering team building packages to the companies  

Companies have played a significant role in contributing to the joint action with the Food Angels Hungary team and the Budapest Bike Mafia in their project at the Aszódi street homeless shelter. The collaboration aimed to strengthen relationships with institutions dealing with social care, fostering effective communication to provide insight into the lives of the institutions and their residents. This effort contributed to changing the negative perception of homelessness.

Participating companies, including Wood Hair, Generali Providencia Foundation, ICSR Nonprofit Kft, Gasztro Prémium Kft, Kiosk restaurant, Adina Apartment Hotels, Caffé Perté, Mova Kft., Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace, and others, played crucial roles in making the project successful. 

Their contributions ranged from providing medical screening buses and food packages to offering bed linen, toiletries, kitchen accessories, towels, and coffee. Especifically, hairdressers from Wood Hair remade the hair of 50 people, the Generali Providencia Foundation provided a medical screening bus, Gasztro Prémium Kft contributed 250 food packages, Kiosk restaurant provided 250 servings of milk rice, and Adina Apartment Hotels supplied bed linen, toiletries, and other essentials. The support extended to clothing donations from friends and the dedication of volunteers who actively participated in the initiative, creating a positive experience for those living in hostels and assisting the employees of the institution who often lack the capacity to run such programs.  

Bike Maffia not only focuses on direct assistance but also aims at advocacy for solidarity. Their team building programs for companies extend beyond traditional themes like barbecue, wine, and cruises. These programs, available in both Hungarian and English for groups ranging from ten to a hundred, start with an introduction to their projects and the individuals they assist. Participants are encouraged to empathise by stepping into the shoes of those in need, gaining insights into the daily challenges faced.  

The activities include an educational game, followed by a practical component where participants prepare sandwiches for people in need. These sandwiches are then delivered to shelters, with the option for participants to join the delivery. The organisation also offers opportunities for sports or other indoor/outdoor activities, both within and outside Budapest.  

IMPACT:

The Budapest Bike Mafia has made a significant impact by addressing homelessness, poverty, and social exclusion through innovative and community-driven initiatives. By engaging corporate partners, the organisation has built a culture of solidarity and collaboration, influenced societal attitudes and extended their reach to multiple cities in Hungary and even internationally. This multifaceted approach has not only addressed immediate needs but also contributed to broader social change.

LESSONS LEARNT:  

• Budapest Bike Maffia's collaborations with companies emphasise the significance of diverse contributions, effective communication, positive employee engagement, educational components, practical involvement, global collaboration, and recognising the valuable contributions of corporate  partners. These lessons provide insights for other organizations seeking to engage with companies in meaningful and impactful social initiatives.  
• Collaboration with companies also extends to international projects through the European Solidarity Corps, showcasing the potential for global partnerships. This allows companies to participate in initiatives that have a broader impact, contributing to social causes beyond local boundaries. Acknowledging and expressing gratitude towards the companies and individuals contributing to the initiatives is crucial. Bike Maffia's recognition of companies like Wood Hair, Gasztro Prémium Kft, and others demonstrates the importance of appreciating the role of corporate partners in the success of social projects.  
• Budapest Bike Mafia aims to deepen its impact by strengthening collaborations with corporate partners, expanding its educational and sensitization programs to reach broader audiences, and scaling its initiatives both locally and internationally.