YMCA Accepting Bicycles for Reuse Program

The YMCA of Kingston and Ulster County is calling for donations of gently used adult bicycles to meet the demand of local residents who need basic transportation. Through the YMCA’s “Lend-A-Wheel” bicycle reuse program, bikes are given to essential workers and any low to moderate income resident of Ulster County who needs a bike. The Lend-A-Wheel program also offers bike locks, helmets, lights and bells.

The YMCA is sees a great community need for used bicycles that can be fixed and recycled through the program. “We’ve given out hundreds of bikes since Lend-A-Wheel started in 2014, but today we have more people than bikes to go around,” YMCA CEO Heidi Kirschner said.

“We could really use your old mountain bike or hybrid, with 24” wheels or bigger,” according to Tom Polk, YMCA Bicycle Program Manager. “Unfortunately, we can’t use “racing style” 10-speeds or bikes for children,” he added.

DONATION GUIDELINES
Your old bike will make a difference in the life of an adult or youth in our community.  The YMCA reconditions bikes and makes them available to people who cannot afford other forms of basic transportation.  Any bike we can’t use we will resell for funds to support program operations.  And of course, one of the most crucial needs of our program is funding! Consider making a cash donation - every little bit helps!  As a registered 501.c.3. non-profit, your donation is tax-deductible.
Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Bikes in good condition and can be fixed with a little TLC!

• Mountain, Hybrid or Cruiser-style bikes with gears for adults or teens

• Quality brands like Trek, Cannondale, Specialized, Diamondback, Fuji, GT, Panasonic, Schwinn, Univega, Jamis

• Gently used parts and accessories such as pedals, seats, locks, water bottle cages, car racks, etc.

And here’s what we CAN’T use:

• Bikes with rusted frames, chains or gears.

• Bikes with twisted wheels, cracked frames or forks

• Bikes for small children

• Used helmets

For details on how to donate and what is accepted, see the attached Donation Guidelines or contact Polk at 845-338-3810, x102, or tpolk@ymcaulster.org

The YMCA is an open, inclusive interfaith movement founded in 1866 which advocates Christian principles through programs that build character, respond to community needs and help build spirit, mind, and body for all. YMCA membership is open to all in the community. Programs are open to the public and YMCA Members, and scholarships are available to those in need.