We are so lucky in Rochester to have a place like R Community Bikes. First and foremost, it gives area residents in need a free refurbished bicycle once a year with just a letter of recommendation from a community agency, church or school. Bikes are fitted properly and distributed twice a week from their warehouse in the city of Rochester. Started fifteen years ago, to date they have repaired or distributed over 30,000 bikes.
The advantage for us at WomanTours is that we have a wonderful place to donate all of our used or broken bike parts and accessories. Nothing goes to waste at RCB as these photos will attest. It is a totally volunteer organization where bikes are solicited and collected from both individuals and organizations. The bikes are then inspected, repaired and cataloged before going out into the community. It's a win for everyone and we are proud to have it be so successful in our home town. If your area doesn't have such a program, we highly recommend it as a way to give people a reliable means of transportation and exercise and a good home for any unused bikes sitting in garages and basements.
