Where to Donate Bicycles

Most people know that they can donate their old cars to different charitable organizations throughout the United States. You can also donate your old and unused bicycles to help those who are less fortunate. Many bikes that are donated are sent overseas to third-world countries where there is a vast need for any type of transportation. Your bicycle may also be given to people in the United States who simply need a way to get to and from work.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Contact a local homeless shelter in your area. These bikes will then be given to homeless individuals who need transportation in order to pick up medication for children, food and other supplies. Most homeless shelters around the country will accept bike donations throughout the entire year.

2. Donate your bicycles to Bikes for the World (see Resources). Bikes for the World has sent thousands of bicycles to people all over Africa, Central America and South America. Many bicycles have also been given to people in need in both urban and rural areas of the United States. To find a drop off location near you, contact Bikes for the World at [phone] or [phone]. You can also write Bikes for the World at [e-mail].

3. Give your used bicycle to Pedals for Progress (see Resources). Pedals for Progress donates bikes and also teaches bike repair to people in need throughout third-world countries. The goal of the organization is to keep bikes out of landfills and put them into the hands of people who can use them on a daily basis. Call [phone] for donation information.

4. Help those in need throughout Africa by giving your bike to World Bicycle Relief (see Resources). Like other charities, World Bicycle Relief gives used bikes to people who need some form of transportation throughout places such as Zambia and Sri Lanka. These bikes are also used by AIDS volunteers who need a way to pick up and deliver medication and other supplies. Call [phone] to learn how you can give your bike to World Bicycle Relief.

5. Find local organizations accepting gift donations during the holiday season. Toys for Tots and The Salvation Army will accept bike donations from the end of November all the day throughout the Christmas season.

Tips & Warnings

• Look out for local "bike drives" throughout the year. The Salvation Army sponsors events like these in urban and rural areas throughout the year. Call a local prison about donating your bike. Many prisons accept bicycles so inmates will have another way to exercise. Broken down bikes are repaired at some prisons and then these bikes are sent to kids in need. Most places that accept bike donation also request a small monetary donation. This is because it costs money to transport bicycles overseas. A $5 to $10 donation is usually required.

Resources

• Bikes for the World
• World Bicycle Relief
• Pedals for Progress