How Your Donation Helps Provide New Kids’ Bikes

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To ensure our February Donation Drive is fair, transparent, and sustainable, we use a donation credit system based on the real value of items we would normally pay for when sourcing bikes and parts.

Credits are not based on retail price. They reflect brand quality, condition, safety, and refurbish potential. All items are assessed at intake.

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Donation credits are assigned based on brand quality, structural safety, parts compatibility, condition, and the time and cost required to refurbish or reuse an item. Each credit represents real inventory value that helps fund new or near-new kids’ bikes, which cost us approximately $120 each.

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Tier 1 — High-Quality Bikes (3 Credits)

Typical value to us: $75–$125+

These are bikes we would normally pay top value for. Examples include, but are not limited to: Trek, Specialized, Giant, Norco, Kona, Cannondale, GT, Marin, Rocky Mountain, Devinci, Scott, Felt, Fuji, Haro, SE Bikes, WeThePeople, Sunday.

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**Qualifying bikes have straight, crack-free frames, standard serviceable components, and are economically viable to refurbish and resell.**

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Tier 2 — Repairable Bikes(2 Credits)

Typical value to us: $40–$75

These bikes require moderate repair but remain viable platforms for refurbishment. They are structurally sound, often older reputable brands, and may require drivetrain, cable, wheel, or brake work.

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Tier 3 — Usable Parts and Components (1 Credit)

Typical value to us: $20–$40

Credits are awarded for usable parts or bundled components such as drivetrains, brakes, wheelsets, forks, and other serviceable parts. Individual low-value items may be grouped together to form one credit.

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**Kids Bikes — Special Rule**

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Kids bikes do not count toward donation credits unless they are high-quality, repairable brands. When they qualify, kids bikes may earn 1–2 credits depending on brand and condition. Low-quality or unsafe kids bikes may still be accepted for recycling but do not earn credits.

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How  Credits Become Kids’ Bikes

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For every 6 qualifying donation credits collected, one new or near-new kids bike is added to our Opening Day Kids Bike Giveaway. This ensures real costs are covered while providing safe, reliable bicycles to children in need.

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Credits are assigned at intake. Not all donations qualify. Brand and condition matter. Credits have no cash value. Giveaway quantities are limited. Final credit decisions on donation credits rest with The Up-Cycle Inc. 

 

Bicycles are given away at the discretion of Scarborough Environmental Association (S.E.A) , as they will facilitate the selection process. 

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A big thank you to everyone who participates and helps a child in need get a great bike! See you in March!!