AUBURN — PJ Mears of Auburn completed his bicycle journey from Maine to Florida on Nov. 25, Thanksgiving Day. Mears hopes the completion of his three-part tour will raise more funds for the Good Shepherd Food Bank. Donations will be matched through a special program under way at the food bank.

Given the many Mainers struggling this holiday season, Mears said, “I’d like to think the 1,700-plus miles I pedaled will provide support and sustenance to those in need here in Maine.”

Mears made the trip in three legs. Beginning in August of 2009, he trekked from Maine to Virginia; in April this year, he rode from Virginia to South Carolina; in November, he completed the journey to Lido Beach in Sarasota, Fla. He concluded the ride with his wife, Andi, as the sun was breaking the horizon.

Donations can be sent directly through www.gsfb.org or by check made out to GSFB and mailed to 3121 Hotel Road, Auburn, ME 04210 (note checks “for PJ’s ride”). Mears has raised more than $1,000 so far.

To see a journal and pictures of his ride, check out www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/ME2FL.