Sometimes your transportation planning analysis may show there are other things you need to help with your transition to to a reduced-car lifestyle. Once your donation is made, you have 30 days to do your transportation analysis and planning and to decide if there are additionl options you wish to take advantage of:

• Perhaps you need a bicycle.
• Perhaps you already have a bicycle but need a trailer, or rain gear.
• Maybe walking will be your most-used mode and you need a good pair of walking shoes.
• Maybe your family already ride bikes, but want to feel more confident riding on city streets.
• Maybe an ebike or scooter is the best option for you.
• Perhaps transit is one of your preferred options.

The option is there for us to help with some of these things up to a value of between $400 and $500, depending on the needs of the household and what we agree between us. Not everyone will need the same level of assistance, and some people will want to maximize the value of their tax receipt.

For bicycles: BEST will contribute up to the agreed amount. The member can shop around, visit the local bike shop and make their selection. BEST will pay its portion directly to the bike shop, with the member making up any difference.

For bike gear (helmets, lights, rain gear, etc.): If it is coming from the same shop the bicycle is being purchased from, the same arrangements apply. If it is only gear that is requested, we consult with the member about the value, place of purchase, and the arrangements for purchase or conditions of reimbursement.

For bike trailers, child extensions, and so on: We have some suggestions about types of trailers and where to get them. BEST will pay the vendor directly on your behalf. The member makes up any difference in price between the agreed assistance level and retail cost.

eBikes: eBikes and electric assist bikes are becoming an increasingly attractive option to many people. The good folks at
E-Bike Town (read more) have agreed to give a $300 discount to BEST Mode Shift members who purchase an ebike from them. If agreed with the member, BEST can also make a contribution as for bicycles or other options, up to the agreed value, with the member contributing any difference. Again BEST would pay the vendor directly, with the member making up any difference.

If you want a different electric assist bike from a different shop, the same guidelines apply as for bicycles. The eBike option applies only to electric assist bicycles, not low-speed scooters or motorcycles.

Transit passes/tickets: If transit passes or a combination of passes and tickets is chosen those items must be purchased by BEST directly and then given to the member, up to the agreed up value. For passes, this will mean passes will be sent on a monthly basis.

Bicycle training: If what's keeping you and your family from riding more is confidence and safety, taking advantage of one the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition's Streetwise Cycling courses may be just what you need. Again, we can help. In would pay your course fees directly to VACC.

As you can see, the benefits of donating a vehicle and becoming a BEST Mode Shift member are many. The exact options selected will depend on the specific family. If there are other options that would  make sense for you but we haven't included, let us know. The program is individually tailored to meet your needs.