Bikes for Kids Wisconsin Donation

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:
https://bikesforkidswi.org/2024-bike-donation-drives-oct-12-nov-23/
About Bikes for Kids Wisconsin:
Bikes for Kids Wisconsin is a 501c3 nonprofit
organization that held its first bike giveaway in
Madison in spring 2017. To date, the organization has
distributed over 12,500 bicycles throughout the state
of Wisconsin.
The organization hosts its annual bike giveaway
program distributing 2,000 bikes annually, they provide
used bike sales and low-cost service for the public, and
provide youth education through the Bike Mechanics
classes in the fall in partnership with public schools.
Bikes for Kids Wisconsin is powered by our love of cycling, our community, and our planet. We
increase the use of bicycle-based transportation for everyone through access, low-cost repairs,
and education.
Media inquiries:
Bikes for Kids Wisconsin – Executive Director Kristie GoForth, at kristie@BikesForKidsWI.org, call
or text 608-444-8641.
Photo credits and captions:
Maripaz and her uncle at a bike giveaway event. Photo by Kristie GoForth.
Zayden and his sister with their new bikes. Photo by Kristie GoForth.