At this unprecedented time, we are reminded how useful and essential bikes are, and how generous people are in our community. Here are ways to you can help, by delivering goods by bike, supporting local businesses for your bike needs, and/or helping individuals get bikes to use for their mental and physical well being.
As always, follow the state law when biking, follow current health department guidelines and offer to do only what you are comfortable doing.
Deliver Goods By Bike
Bikes can be used to get essential goods such as food, medicines, and other supplies to people in need. If you are thinking about delivering goods for volunteer or for pay, consider and communicate two things: how much can you carry (ex. backpack, # of grocery bags, or cargo) and where will you go (flats only or hills okay). We will update this list of opportunities as new needs arise.
Volunteer via Mutual Aid: This is currently a Facebook group where people connect directly. Either ask for help or make an offer of how you can help. Offer to make pick up and deliveries by bike and you may get responses. Let us know how it goes.
Neighbor-to-Neighbor: The tried and true method of talking to your neighbors and seeing how you can help each other. Sometimes it takes a moment to remember that bikes can be of service. Let us know if you do end up helping in your community by bike; everyone’s examples will inspire others.
Delivery for Local Businesses: Some businesses are struggling to keep up with delivery demand. We will post information here as we learn of ways to connect bike couriers to businesses who need them.
Please note Bike Walk Tompkins is not directly coordinating and matching volunteers with needs at this time. We are getting the word out and the reminder that bikes can be excellent tools for essential trips.
Delivering goods by bike is an all around win, as it promotes climate friendly transportation.
Support Local Bike Shops
If you need a bike mechanic and/or bikes to use, shop local using our directory of local bike shops updated with new hours of operation and services. Most of these shops are offering bike tune up services and can also order panniers, rear racks, trailers, and gear if you want to make your bike system even better for carrying goods. For even lower cost bike and bike accessory options, check out craigslist, neighborhood listservs, Facebook and RIBs. We applaud all your efforts to get working bikes for yourself and/or for people you know who could use them.