Free Bike Program

UBP’s Free Bike Program provides refurbished, utilitarian bicycles to Wilmington area adults in need for transportation and recreation. The program also provides locks, helmets, lights, and other commuter accessories such as fenders and racks upon request (when available).

Program Goals – Transportation and Health

Bicycles are a low-cost, low-maintenance mode of transportation that are also part of a healthy, active lifestyle. Program applicants use their bicycle for securing or maintaining employment, getting around town, achieving health goals and reducing stress.

Details and Eligibility

Applicants must submit an application form as well as a referral letter from a social service agency. To be eligible, individuals must have income at or below 167% federal poverty level. Applicants will be notified when their bicycle is available for pickup. Bicycles that are unclaimed after two months will be given to other applicants. APPLICANTS MUST LIVE IN THE WILMINGTON AREA – priority will be given to City of Wilmington residents.

Applicants MUST submit the following:

□       Referral letter from a social service provider such as a case worker, social worker, probation officer, doctor, or religious leader.

□       Free Bike Program application form

To Apply:

Online

ONLINE APPLICATION

Referral letters can be submitted online by emailing them to urbanbikeproject@gmail.com

By Mail

Download/print the application HERE.

Mail the completed application and referral letter to:

PO Box 729
Wilmington DE 19899

In Person

Applications are available at our Open Shop program – a letter of reference is still required. UBP staff are on hand to assist in filling out the application and answer any questions you may have.

Sample Letter of Reference:

A sample letter of reference can be found HERE. Your letter does not have to follow this template exactly, but it is a good example. We prefer personal letters as opposed to standard “fill-in-the-blank” requests for services.

A Wilmington resident receives a free bike to ease his commute during a special COVID relief giveaway event at St. Patrick’s Center.