Availability of funding:

OCBC’s ability to help customers through the PWYC program depends on donations from other customers and community members. We cannot guarantee that financial assistance will be available at any particular time. Additionally, our stock of refurbished bikes fluctuates throughout the year. Funds through the PWYC program are meant to supplement any amount that customers or social service agencies can pay. If the referring agency or customer is able to afford any part of the cost of goods or services, they are required to make a financial contribution toward the purchase.

Eligibility:

 OCBC can cover up to the full cost of a bike or repair in these situations:

  • The customer is living in a domestic violence or homeless shelter or outside.
  • The customer is enrolled in a drug or alcohol treatment program.
  • The customer’s income is less than 150% of the federal poverty line.
  • The customer is receiving SSDI or veteran’s disability benefits.
  • The customer is currently attending a psychiatric partial hospitalization program.
  • The customer is receiving SNAP (food stamps), WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), or Medicaid benefits.

If none of the above apply, we can still cover up to half the cost of a bike or repair if:

How to get connected:

I am interested in safety accessories such as a helmet, bike lock, or rechargeable lights.

We can serve you as a walk-up at bicycle thrift store (1779 Merwin Ave. Cleveland, OH 44113) during open hours (Thurs – Sat, noon – 5pm).

Please bring with you:

  • your bicycle
  • your photo ID
  • proof of financial need (e.g., paystub or letter from Ohio Dept of Job and Family Services showing you receive SNAP or Medicaid benefits)

I am interested in a refurbished bike.

Due to high demand, we are currently requiring a referral from a social service agency provider for customers requesting refurbished bikes. Please have your provider reach out to us at pwyc@ohiocitycycles.org, and we will send them instructions on how to refer you

I am interested in repairs to a bike I currently own.

We can serve you as a walk-up at our bicycle thrift store (1779 Merwin Ave. Cleveland, OH 44113) during open hours (Thurs – Sat, noon – 5pm).

Please bring with you:

  • your bicycle
  • your photo ID
  • proof of financial need (e.g., paystub or letter from Ohio Dept of Job and Family Services showing you receive SNAP or Medicaid benefits)
  • a phone number and/or email where you can be reached

It’s possible that we will not be able to complete the repairs while you wait, so you might have to drop off your bike and come back for it at a later time. Please inform us as soon as possible if you cannot drop off your bike because you will need it for the trip home.