Do you have old bikes your family no longer uses? Donate them to be passed on to local children in need! The following is a list of the local programs we could find that accept bicycle donations:
- Bikes for Tykes (Hickory)
The Hickory Fire Department collects new and like new bikes and tricycles for needy children to be given out during the Catawba County Christmas Bureau each year. Bikes or tricycles to be donated can be dropped off at any of the Hickory fire stations between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. daily. Persons needing directions or having questions can call 828-323-7420 for additional information. The last day to drop off for the 2018 season is December 12th. - Christmas Cheer
(Morganton)
The Christmas Cheer program, in its 89th year, repairs and refurbishes bicycles to be donated to children in need at Christmastime. An information sheet is sent home to Burke County Schools’ students informing parents about the times of distribution. Donations of bicycles, in any condition, can be dropped off at the Collett Street Recreation Center in Morganton via the downstairs entrance Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additional information is available by calling 828-438-5350. Last day to drop off for the 2018 season is December 7th. - Wheels of Love
(Marion)
Started in 2007, Wheels of Love, is a program at the Marion Correctional Institute, in partnership with Keep McDowell Beautiful, which refurbishes old bicycles through the volunteer efforts of inmates and donates them to Project Christmas and other organizations throughout McDowell County such as the Marion Moose Family Center and Old Fort Ruritan Club. Donations can be dropped off at the Marion Correctional parking lot anytime; please call 828-652-4321 to arrange for a staff member to collect the bicycle or for additional information. This is a year-round program with donations accepted any time of the year.
Know of other places to donate bicycles not on our list? Email us! Looking for other ways for your family to serve others and give back to the community during the holidays? Check out our inspiring list of simple and fun ideas.
