Bicycle donations sought for 40th annual gift program
Ervin Kroeker, of Don Pedro, unloads bicycles from his truck for “Bikes
fortykes” in 2018. Kroeker has been in charge of the program
for over 20 years and estimates they’ve given
away more than 1,000 bikes over that period of
time.
Good used bicycles are being collected in November for the annual Bikes for Tykes program, which provides bicycles as Christmas gifts for children who might not otherwise have them.
The bikes are given away during an annual Christmas party at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds.
Ervin Kroeker, of Don Pedro, an avid bicyclist himself, has been in charge of the program for over 20 years. This will be the 40th year anniversary of the Children’s Holiday Party.
“I think through the years we’ve given away over 1,000 bikes,” Kroeker said. “It’s been a worthwhile project over the years.
Good used (or new) bikes can be dropped off anytime in November at Les Schwab, 14885 Mono Way in East Sonora, near
Tractor Supply.
The bikes are cleaned and tuned by Kroeker and volunteers before distribution at the December party. Volunteers are always needed, Kroeker said.
Call Kroeker at (209) 852-9729 or his cell (209) 853-1260 for more information or to make a monetary donation. All money received goes directly toward buying or repairing bikes.