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Seventh-grader launches BCB Safe to distribute reflective gear and teach night visibility
Summary
Seventh‑grader Rhyma Mahend Mahendale told the Bedford School Committee she started BCB Safe, a registered 501(c)(3) that distributes reflective gear, partners with local organizations and raises funds to improve nighttime pedestrian visibility.
Rhyma Mahend Mahendale, a seventh‑grader at JGMS, told the Bedford School Committee on June 9 that she founded BCB Safe to make pedestrians, cyclists and pets easier to see after dark.
"My name is Rhyma. I'm a seventh grader at the JGMS and I'm the founder of BCB Safe," she said, describing the group’s work handing out reflective gear, teaching families about safety and creating a replicable chapter model. She said reflective gear can make a person visible to drivers from up to 500 feet, compared with roughly 80 feet for dark clothing.
Rhyma said BCB Safe has registered as a 501(c)(3), built a website and social media presence, and raised more than $1,000 in donations. She thanked the Bedford Police Department and the Rotary Club as early partners and singled out Officer Bricky as a mentor.
Committee members responded with praise and offers of help. Committee member Sheila Ma Green called the presentation "terrific" and praised the website; another member encouraged Rhyma to work with the district wellness director to add night‑visibility content to health and PE curricula.
The committee did not take formal action; members suggested Rhyma meet with school staff to discuss curricular partnerships and recommended she consider a presence at Bedford Day to broaden outreach.
