Shift Community Cycles, a nonprofit based in Eugene, is asking local residents and businesses to help raise $75,000 after a state grant fell through. The organization, which offers low‑cost or free refurbished bicycles, also runs youth‑focused cycling camps, after‑school clubs and family rides.
Grant loss puts programs at risk
In 2024, Shift received a two‑year, $250,000 grant from the Oregon Health Authority’s Health Modernization Grant for Environmental Public Health and Climate Change. The funding allowed the nonprofit to expand its offerings, including summer cycling camps and the Free Bikes 4 Kidz initiative, which distributes bicycles to children.
This year the grant was not renewed. Executive Director Kendsie Channing explained, “It was state funding that was like a federal pass‑through, and with all of the changes in the federal administration, we didn’t receive the funding this year that we expected to.” As a result, Shift has laid off three program staffers—about a quarter of its workforce—and paused several educational activities.
Fundraising goal and how the money will be used
Shift’s immediate goal is to collect $75,000 to keep the Free Bikes 4 Kidz program operating. The money would cover essential items such as tires, tubes, chains, helmets and locks, as well as the salary of the program manager and rent for its space at 190 W Eighth Avenue.
In 2024 the organization gave away 410 bicycles and hopes to reach 600 by the end of the year. “Our hope is that if we can provide a tool, then we can find ways to continue the additional support after that tool is given,” Channing said. “Without a bike, what’s the purpose of learning how to ride a bike?”
Other programs on hold
Shift also hopes to secure donations and community partners to fund its summer camps, after‑school programs, family rides and bike buses, all of which are currently on pause. Repair pop‑ups and workshops will continue, but the nonprofit’s ability to offer hands‑on instruction is limited without staff and space.
The summer camps, which run from June through August for youths ages 8 to 14, normally cost $200 per child, with a reduced rate of $150 for families facing financial hardship. This year’s camps served about 100 children, marking the third and final session funded by the lost grant.
Space uncertainty and future plans
Shift’s current location on Eighth Avenue was donated and is rented month‑to‑month. The property owner may need the space back, prompting the nonprofit to search for a new local site.
Channing emphasized the broader impact of affordable bicycles: “Affordable bicycles unlock so much opportunity for residents, in part by cutting out transportation costs.” She urged community members to consider monthly donations to sustain the program’s long‑term viability.
How to help
Residents can contribute directly through Shift’s website, attend upcoming repair pop‑ups, or partner with local businesses to sponsor equipment and space. The nonprofit stresses that preserving these programs not only promotes healthier, active lifestyles but also strengthens community bonds in Eugene.
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
