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Madison, WI – Bikes for Kids Wisconsin, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing the use of bicycle-based transportation for everyone through access, low-cost repairs, and education, is reaching out to the public to donate gently used bicycles of all sizes and styles for their annual bike giveaway efforts in March and April. On Saturday, October 12 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m, the organization will be accepting donations in the parking lot of their sponsor, Thrive Architects in Appleton. Gently used bikes of all sizes and styles will be accepted. With the goal of giving away approximately 2,000 bicycles throughout the state, Bikes for Kids recognizes the pressing need for low-cost, active transportation in the community. The nonprofit organization aims to provide free bicycles that have been fully restored to financially-challenged individuals throughout Wisconsin. In 2024, 94% of the bikes distributed through the program were directed to underserved communities, where access to transportation is often limited. Bicycles donated to the Bikes for Kids Wisconsin will be refurbished and tuned up by staff and volunteers to ensure safety before being distributed to those in need. Bikes serve as more than just recreational vehicles; they provide vital transportation for individuals to access school, work, and other opportunities. Bikes are distributed to both children and adults in need of bicycles. Many children rely on these bicycles to participate in school sports and events, enhancing their overall quality of life because they do not have caregivers who are able to drive them. Adults use them as a tool for economic mobility to acquire and maintain jobs, access services, food, and more. “It is always inspiring to see the community rally to support this initiative when we ask for help. If your child has outgrown their bike or adults are ready to upgrade to a new ride and you’d like to pay it forward so someone else can have the same opportunity, this is an excellent opportunity to do just that ,” said Kristie GoForth, Executive Director at Bikes for Kids Wisconsin. “ Every donated bicycle makes a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing financial hardship. It’s heartwarming when the public recognizes that need and offers to support with the donation of a bicycle. Having access to low-cost transportation can change an individual’s life by giving them opportunities they wouldn't have otherwise.” Bicycle donations can be used or new. They can be dropped off at Thrive Architects in Appleton located at 2339 W. Wisconsin Avenue in Appleton on Saturday, October 12, 2024 between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Look for the large truck and signage in the parking lot. The truck will depart for Madison promptly at 2:00 p.m. Thrive Architects is a commercial architecture practice with offices in Appleton, Madison, and Waukesha. Jeremy Moser, the Creative Director with Thrive states, “We are excited to support the mission of Bikes for Kids. All kids should have bikes because they bring freedom, independence, and they’re good for us.” For more information, please visit the Bikes for Kids website:
