Apex group aims to donate 150 bikes, helmets to North Carolina children this holiday

APEX, N.C. (WTVD) -- Many organizations in Central North Carolina are working to make the holidays special for children.

Bikes for Hope, a group in Apex, is dedicated to ensuring every child has a bike under the tree. Founder Tim Overton created the initiative three years ago to give kids the gift of freedom, inspired by his own childhood joy of riding a bike.

"It was one of the best things in the world," he told ABC11.

Last year, 256 children received bikes and helmets, along with a $5,000 donation to a local food pantry. This year, the group aims to provide 150 bikes and helmets through the United Church of Christ Christmas Store and the Polar Express Christmas Experience.

Overton emphasized the importance of community support, saying, "If people weren't doing this type of work, where would Christmas come from?"

The group also addresses food insecurity. Any funds collected after December 6 or in excess of the goal will go toward food banks in the area.

"I'm just a conduit for the community to be able to give back for this Christmas," Overton said.