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The 29th annual Central New York (CNY) Bike Giveaway is underway, accepting donations at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse, New York. Starting today, bikes can be dropped off at Gate Two daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the final day for donations set for December 14. The event is seeking children's, hybrid, and mountain bikes, which will be repaired and distributed to local families in need over the coming weeks.
The giveaway continues the legacy of its founder, Jan Maloff, who passed away earlier this year. Maloff's vision of providing bicycles to families in Central New York is being carried forward by a new board of directors and a dedicated group of volunteers. According to WSYR-TV, about 40 volunteers have stepped up to ensure the event's continuation, honoring Maloff's promise to keep the tradition alive.
The CNY Bike Giveaway has become a cherished event in the community, providing thousands of bikes each year. Last year, over 2,000 bikes were repaired and given away, and the need remains high due to economic challenges. The Onondaga Cycling Club notes that the program is a registered charity, and donations are tax-deductible.
Volunteers of all skill levels are encouraged to participate in the repair process, which ranges from cleaning bikes to performing major repairs. The Onondaga Cycling Club highlights the importance of community involvement in making the event a success. Additionally, the CNY Family Bike organization has a mobile repair trailer that operates in residential neighborhoods during the summer months, teaching recipients how to maintain their bikes.
For those interested in donating, the CNY Family Bike organization is open to receiving bikes in any condition. They emphasize that even bikes with rust or missing parts are welcome, as volunteers can often salvage parts to make other bikes rideable. More information on how to donate can be found on the CNY Family Bike website.