Free Bikes for Low-Income Canadian Children – My First Bicycle Foundation

This post is part of our new ongoing "Helping Canadians" series where I will be sharing ways to help out Canadians who need some extra help. There is a lot of resources available that are hidden just enough that they are not accessed and I am planning on sharing everything I can find so its easily accessible.

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Sharing how low-income Canadian children can get a free bicycle from the My First Bicycle Foundation. I am in a ton of group chats thanks to my kids and their extracurricular activities and parents are always sharing ways to make parenting just a little bit easier. This was a big win.

Why We Love Biking for Children

Have you heard about the benefits of biking for kids? Not only is it a blast, but it’s also great for their physical and mental development. Riding a bike helps to build coordination, balance, and strength. Plus, it gets the kiddos moving and grooving, which is essential for keeping ’em healthy and happy.

Biking is also an excellent way for children to explore their environment and become more independent. When they’re out cruising around, they develop a better sense of responsibility and safety awareness, too. And let’s not forget the sense of freedom and achievement that comes with having their own set of wheels. It can really boost their self-esteem and confidence!

So, if you want your little ones to thrive and have a blast, be sure to encourage them to hop on a bike. Just make sure they have the right gear and safety measures in place, okay? Happy biking!

Who Is Eligible to Get a Free Bicycle?

Canadian children who are between the ages of 6-16 are eligible to receive a bike kit. Only 2 children per family can get bicycles. The application is typically open Feb-May and bikes start getting sent out once approved.

What is Included in the Bike Kit?

Each kit includes a bicycle, helmet, lock, bell, tools, and instructions on how to assemble and service the bite. The bike comes partially assembled.

What are the Income Requirements?

My First Bicycle asks that applicants meet the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO). This is something that the Canadian Federal Government has come up with to be used by charities to qualify families for receiving charitable services and donations.

What documents do I need to apply?

The application process is very straightforward and easy. Before you get started please get all your documents together.

Notice of Assessment “NOA”: For married or common-law, both NOAs are required.
Canada Child Tax Benefit Notice: To verify your family’s financial situation.
Child(ren) Government-issued Identification Document: Birth Certificate, Passport, HealthCare Card, Identification Card, Drivers License, or Permanent Residence Card. You must have these documents ready and upload them to the application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Is My First Bicycle Foundation a Charity?

My First Bicycle is a Canadian charity authorized by the Canada Revenue Agency (“CRA”). You can check on the status by visiting CRA’s website.

Can I Donate to My Bicycle Foundation?

Yes of course. My First Bicycle Foundation makes it very easy for you to donate. Every $1000 donation gets 5 bicycle kits into Canadian children’s hands.

How Can I Apply for a Free Bicycle?

Once you get all of the documents together head on over to the MyFirstBicycle.ca website and go through the application process. It will only take you a few minutes to complete. Bicycles are given out on a first-come, first-serve basis so please don’t hesitate if you’re interested in one for your kids.

Check out these other posts in our “Helping Canadians” Series:

Free Bikes for Low-Income Canadian Children – My First Bicycle Foundation
How to Apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program in Ontario
How to Reduce Electricity Bills for Lower-Income Households in Ontario
10 Simple Tips for Saving Money on Groceries Each Month: A Guide
How the Free Enbridge Gas Home Winterproofing Program Can Save Your Wallet
Youth Sports Funding for Low-Income Canadian Families

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Aneta Alaei

Aneta is a Toronto-based mom of four that loves a good meal, great company, and learning something new. In her free time, you can find her trying to keep yet another plant alive.

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22 Comments

Steph.S
March 30, 2023 / 12:00 pm

Great foundation. Thanks for sharing.
Ryley
March 31, 2023 / 3:32 am

Wow so cool. I didn’t know about this program!
Sandra McG
March 31, 2023 / 12:06 pm

I did not have a clue there was anything like this available. what a great idea!!
Darlene Burns
March 31, 2023 / 11:51 pm

This sounds like a great program for kids in Canada .I have never heard of this before thank you for sharing .
Shirley O
April 1, 2023 / 2:06 pm

This is a great initiative for children. I wasn’t aware of this program, thank you for the information. I will be sure to pass it on to those I know who can benefit from it.
Aneta Alaei
Author
April 1, 2023 / 5:53 pm

Thank you so much for sharing. It is my hope that everyone who needs it gets access to the program
Aneta Alaei
Author
April 1, 2023 / 5:55 pm

You’re welcome. Please share if you get a chance so more kids get bikes
Debbie Beattie
April 3, 2023 / 12:53 am

This sounds like a great program to help kids get some happy childhood memories
Heather Swanson
April 4, 2023 / 6:01 pm

such a worthwhile charity
Heather Swanson
April 6, 2023 / 9:02 pm

such a positive story
Ryley
April 12, 2023 / 1:17 pm

Such a great program!
Kristen Visser
April 13, 2023 / 5:57 pm

oh my goodness. what a terrific program! I love that I can donate bikes to them as well.
Shirley
July 21, 2023 / 9:56 am

This sounds like a great program
Asma Ali
August 21, 2023 / 6:52 pm

I need help with freezing bike for myself to go to work
Sophia Trouwborst
September 12, 2023 / 7:30 pm

Sophia Trouwborst was offered a bike in Sept. I was on Holidays to look after my family. For some reason I lost the phone number. Can you help me. It expires in Sept.
Mary Brehaut
October 17, 2023 / 5:35 pm

Hi there,
I work in an adult literacy program in Parkdale, Toronto.
One of our students and her son both had their bikes stolen and I wondered if they could apply to your organization for replacement bikes.
I notice the application link isn’t working on the website (at least not on my computer).
Is there another option?
Thank you so much. Great program!
Mary
Janet M
February 23, 2024 / 9:49 am

This is such a great program for children.
Shari Dalton
April 2, 2024 / 10:36 am

What a great concept! Every child should have the joy of riding a bike.
Hannah J
April 2, 2024 / 7:19 pm

What a nice program for people who can’t otherwise afford bikes. Much better than the kids being on video games
Ryley
April 2, 2024 / 8:38 pm

Great information. Thanks so much!
Natalie
April 4, 2024 / 3:55 am

Such an inspiring cause, thanks for sharing
Heather Swanson
April 7, 2024 / 7:27 am

super program