12/10/2008 07:21 AM

By: Gavin MacRoberts

This year, Mathis set a goal to give away 800 bikes. Thanks to last-minute donations, he has surpassed his goal and expects to give 850 away. 

FAYETTEVILLE — The “Bike Man” Moses Mathis in Fayetteville is once again giving away bikes to hundreds of children in need this year.

Sixteen years ago, Mathis started out by giving a handful of bikes to kids. Now, his charity has grown into hundreds of bikes and includes giving away refurbished computers to children during the school year.

A local man will be giving away hundreds of bicycles this Christmas to children in need.

Mathis estimates he has given away more than 15,000 bikes since he started the program. He says all the hard work through the years is worth it for that one special day.

Mathis says that even though he has met his goal for the bike giveaway, he still needs cash donations to help pay for the cost of fixing the bikes. He estimates the program spends $10,000 a year and relies on donations to stay open.

Wednesday is the deadline for families to apply for a bike. To apply, children in Cumberland County must go to their school’s social worker. They will then refer the names of children to Mathis.

This year, bikes will be given away on December 23.

This story is from our News14 Website. The give-away is at 9:00 a.m.; 3469 Black and Decker Rd.; Fayetteville, NC.
Mr. Mathis’ Web Site.