Why are bibles sold for profit? Christians are encouraged to give donations and free items to the needy. 

But why are Bibles sometimes sold for profit, instead of being sold at cost-price, at a subsidized price, or even for free?
Because Bible publishers, like everyone else, must make a living, so they can pay their mortgages, buy groceries, and put the children through college.

It's the same reason pastors and missionaries are paid salaries.