Giving Bikes Back Give The Underserved A Way Forward

In 2018, Lindsay Remington combined two of her passions—cycling and community service—and started Giving Bikes Back, a volunteer-run program serving Southeastern Pennsylvania. Since then, the mission has been simple but powerful: donate new and refurbished bikes to underserved individuals and families. Nearly seven years later, the team of seven volunteers has already impacted 674 lives—and they aren’t done yet.

Operating under the umbrella of Westside Community Center, Giving Bikes Back has plans to keep growing the non-profit and impact even more lives. With the goal of donating over 200 bikes annually, they’re on track to change 1,000 lives by the end of 2026.

So why bikes? Because for the communities they serve, a bike isn’t just a ride—it’s a lifeline. “Bikes mean many things to many, especially the underserved…function, freedom, fitness, and fun,” says Remington. “We have clients who have benefited from our services by having accessible and economical transportation, the ability to get [to] other critical appointments and necessities, a means
to get healthy, and of course an outlet with the family.”

Among those who have received bikes, Giving Bikes Back has provided five to a shelter, and the impact on the residents has been life-changing. One client summed it up best: “This bike is a game-changer. I don’t have to stress about transportation anymore.” Another shared, “Riding again makes me feel normal, like I belong.” These stories are examples of how something as simple as a bike can have a deep, lasting impact.

With a budget of just over $6,000 annually—which covers the bikes as well as helmets, locks, and the costs of running the organization—Giving Bikes Back is on track to meet their 200 bikes a year goal, and with the right support, they’ll continue to expand. Their wishlist also includes some one-time investments that would boost capacity even further.

Like many small charities, their biggest challenge isn’t vision or drive—it’s time. The team juggles work, families, and life, but they keep showing up, driven by the simple belief that everyone deserves the freedom a bike can bring. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the bikes themselves—it’s about where they can take someone.

To contribute to this organization please visit Giving Bikes Back – Humanitarian Social Innovations