I’m contacted regularly about people looking for a place to donate their used bicycles and gear, whether it’s a bike their kids have outgrown, an old bike they no longer ride, or used — but still useable — components that are just taking up space in their garage.
People want to see their used bikes and gear go to a good home, and not a landfill. In many cases, there’s still plenty of life left in those old bikes or components, they just need to be matched up with someone who can use and appreciate them.
Thankfully, there are a number of organizations around the state that will accept your used bicycles, components, and related gear, and find them a new home.
I’ve put together a list of Where To Donate Bicycles in Kansas.
Most of these organizations are non-profits who do this as a public service, or as a way to help support their mission. Many of these are in the larger cities, but there are some in small towns as well.
Since the organizations are non-profits, you may be able to deduct the value of your donation from your federal and state income taxes.
Depending on the condition of the bicycle, it may be refurbished, or its components may be removed and used to help repair other bikes. Any parts of the bike that cannot be refurbed or reused will be responsibly recycled.
In addition to the programs listed in the article, many community organizations, such as the American Legion, Elks Club, Goodwill, Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, Ruritans, Salvation Army, VFW, and many more will either accept bicycles donations, or be able to advise you about where to drop off. Your local bike shop, if you have one, should also be able to offer some suggestions for donating your bicycle.
The article also provides links to bicycle donation options in our neighboring states of Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.
So, don’t throw that old bike and gear away! Help it find a new home and a new purpose.
If you are aware of a bicycle donation option not on the list, please let me know!
I think the Bike Cave in Wichita would also accept bike donations.