Pedals for Progress Bike Collection to be Held on May 26

Submitted release

Pedals for Progress rescues bicycles destined for our overburdened landfills and ships them to developing countries where they are highly valued. Over the last 21 years, the organization has received, processed and donated more than 133,000 bicycles, 2,000 used sewing machines and over $10.8 million in new spare parts to partner charities in 38 developing world countries.

Pedals for Progress sends the first containerized cargo shipment to a community owned non-profit bike store for free. Depending on the size of the container, the shipment could contain 400-550 bicycles, spare parts and tools, with a commercial value of $25,000 or more. The repair store then earns enough money selling the repaired bikes to pay for the next shipment. Pedals for Progress isn't just donating used bicycles; it's also helping developing world economies by promoting self-sustaining bicycle repair businesses.

The ripples of Pedals for Progress extend beyond bicycles. P4P partners operate programs in vocational education, youth enterprise development, micro-credit, environmental education, rural health care delivery, and agricultural extension, where bicycles can play a cost-effective role in providing essential services and generating employment.

Pedals for Progress will hold its eleventh annual Granby bike and sewing machine collection, sponsored by Jackie Johnson with support from Holcomb Farm, on Saturday, May 26th from noon to 3 p.m., rain or shine, at Holcomb Farm, 113 Simsbury Road. Anyone with sewing machines, or adult or children’s bicycles in working or repairable condition is encouraged to donate to this great cause.

The cost to collect, process, ship, rebuild, and distribute each bicycle is $40.  A $10 minimum donation toward shipping costs is necessary.  Any additional donations to cover the increasing cost of shipping are greatly appreciated.  All cash and material donations are fully tax deductible and a receipt is available at the collection site.  Pedals for Progress is a 501 c (3) corporation and a registered charity in Connecticut. For information about overseas projects and a current schedule of bicycle collections, visit www.p4p.org or call Jackie Johnson at 653-7758.

If you are interested in volunteering at the collection or helping to publicize the event, we welcome adult and student involvement.