Written by Paul Hall –
COARSEGOLD – The third annual Bicycle & Toy Giveaway for underprivileged mountain kids is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15.
The event is a collaborative effort with G’ma and Pappa’s Motorcycle Apparel and the Sierra Shadow Casters Motorcycle Club based in Coarsegold.
Last year, children ages 3 to 12 years from all over the foothill community came to visit Santa and received a new bike and helmet. The demand was so high that unfortunately several kids went away with a toy instead of a bike.
This year, Santa’s Elves have gone into overdrive to make sure every good little boy and girl gets a new bike, and the goal is to double the number of available bikes to 150.
Sadly, it is hard to predict the exact number of bikes and bike sizes that will be needed, so this year Santa and his organizers are asking parents to show up at G’ma and Pappa’s Motorcycle Apparel between Nov. 24 and Dec. 8, to receive a voucher for a bicycle or a toy if a bike is not desired. Toys are for kids ages 1 to 6 years.
G’ma and Pappa’s is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week and is located in the Gold Creek Center in Coarsegold at 35285 Highway 41 Suite A.
Vouchers are coded to assure children get the correct size bicycle. There are a limited number of bikes in each size available; parents will get a voucher on a first come, first served basis until all vouchers are distributed.
Santa will be arriving at G’ma & Pappa’s on his motorcycle sleigh at 10 a.m. It is recommended that families arrive at 9:30 a.m. to allow time to park and be ready for Santa’s arrival.
There will be free photos taken with each child with their new bike or toy, and Santa. Photos will be made available online for download following the event. Hot cocoa, coffee and cookies will be available along with festive music to get everyone in the holiday spirit.
The event is designed for families who are unable to purchase a new bike for their children. No financial verification is required. The process is based on the honor system. However, families must be from the mountain area communities and ID will be required to establish mountain residency.
For those who may be so inclined to contribute, cash donations, new unwrapped toys or new bicycles are welcomed. Please visit our GoFundMe page to donate cash. Toys and bicycles may be delivered to G’mas and Pappa’s. The donation deadline is Dec. 7.
For questions contact Paul at 559-660-6440.
