Do you have an old bicycle gathering dust in your garage? Donating it is a fantastic way to declutter and contribute to a great cause. At organizations like Bike Works, bike donations are the lifeblood of their community programs, social enterprise shops, and initiatives that provide reliable transportation to those in need. Every year, Bike Works processes thousands of bike donations, diverting hundreds of thousands of pounds from landfills and turning them into opportunities for individuals and the community.
Why Donate Your Used Bicycle?
Donating your used bike offers numerous benefits, extending far beyond simply freeing up space. Here’s why you should consider donating:
- Environmental Impact: Bicycles diverted from the waste stream are recycled and repurposed, reducing landfill waste and promoting sustainability.
- Community Support: Your donation directly supports valuable community programs. Bike Works, for example, uses donated bikes for youth and adult education programs, community bike giveaways, and their social enterprise shop, funding their mission to empower youth and build resilient communities through bicycling.
- Tax Deduction: Bike donations are often tax-deductible, offering a financial incentive while giving back. Be sure to request and keep a donation receipt for your records.
- Giving Back: You’re providing someone in need with access to affordable transportation, recreation, and a healthier lifestyle. Your used bike can become someone else’s reliable ride.
Where to Donate Bikes Near Me: Seattle Donation Drop-Off Locations
If you’re looking to donate bikes near Seattle, WA, Bike Works provides several convenient drop-off locations:
1. Bike Works Warehouse (Donation Drop-Off)
- Address: 3715 S Hudson St #111 (back entrance) Seattle, WA 98118
- Drop-Off Hours: Weekdays, 11 AM – 5 PM (No appointment needed)
- Instructions: Leave donations at the bike rack near the Bike Works vans.
- Bike Limit: No bike limit (Call if donating over 10 bikes).
- Note: Closed on holidays; check the calendar for updates.
2. North Transfer Station (Seattle Public Utilities)
- Address: 1350 N 34th St, Seattle, WA 98103
- Bike Limit: Ten bikes maximum.
- Location: Find the Bike Works Bike Bin at the Recycle & Reuse Center Building, near the entrance before the scale house.
3. South Transfer Station (Seattle Public Utilities)
- Address: 130 S Kenyon St, Seattle, WA 98108
- Bike Limit: Ten bikes maximum.
- Location: After checking in at the scale house, find the green Bike Works Bin near the exit at the north end of the Transfer Station.
4. Rapha Seattle (Capitol Hill)
- Address: 301 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122
- Bike Limit: One bike maximum.
- Perk: Enjoy 10% off your Rapha purchase and a free coffee when you donate!
5. Rack N Road Renton
- Address: 401 Rainier Ave N, Renton, WA 98057
- Bike Limit: Three bikes maximum; No trunk racks accepted at this location.
- Note: Mention Bike Works when dropping off. Rack N Road donates the value of trunk racks brought in on behalf of Bike Works.
For Tacoma Area Donations:
- 2nd Cycle Tacoma: 1205 MLK Jr Way, Tacoma, WA 98405
- If you are located in Tacoma, consider donating to Bike Works’ partner organization, 2nd Cycle Tacoma.
What Types of Bikes and Parts Can You Donate?
Bike Works accepts a wide variety of bike-related donations, including:
- Bicycles of any type, quality, and condition.
- Bike parts of all kinds.
- Bike frames.
- Bike accessories and gear.
- Car racks (Thule & Yakima trunk racks only are preferred to be donated directly to Rack N Road in Renton).
Important Considerations:
- Rusty Bikes: While all bikes are considered, extremely rusty bikes are better suited for metal recycling.
- eBikes: Contact Bike Works at 206-257-5895 or [email protected] for eBike donation approval due to lithium-ion battery safety and disposal regulations. Battery removal access is required for eBike donations.
- Large Donations (10+ Bikes): Please drop off large donations at the Bike Works Warehouse location.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bike Donations
Q: What happens to my donated bike?
A: Donated bikes are used in various ways: as teaching tools in programs, given to individuals in need through partner organizations, used in the Earn-A-Bike program, or refurbished and sold in the Bike Works shop to fund programs.
Q: Does Bike Works offer bike donation pick-up?
A: Pick-up may be available for large donations (minimum $250 value) to cover costs. Check the Bike Works calendar for local bike drives or contact [email protected] for pick-up inquiries.
Q: Can I get a tax receipt for my bike donation?
A: Yes, you can receive a tax deduction receipt. Fill out the donation receipt form available on the Bike Works website after dropping off your donation.
Q: How do I know if my donation will be accepted?
A: Bike Works accepts almost all bicycle-related donations. They redistribute bikes through various programs and partnerships. Contact them at 206-257-5895 with any specific questions. A suggested donation of $1 per tire helps cover the cost of ethical tire recycling.
Host a Bike Drive in Your Community
Want to amplify your impact? Hosting a bike drive is a fantastic way to support Bike Works and engage your community. Schools, scout troops, faith communities, and other organizations can easily host a bike drive. Bike Works provides a helpful Bike Drive Guide to assist you in collecting used bikes for their programs.
By donating your used bike, you’re not just clearing space – you’re contributing to a sustainable cycle of giving, community support, and empowerment. Find a “donate bikes near me” location today and make a difference!
