Community Event Brings Free Bikes to Children in Need

Hundreds of children from underserved neighborhoods received free bicycles during a special event organized by correction officers and the NYPD. The initiative aimed to foster positive community relations and help children feel more comfortable around law enforcement officials.

Approximately 400 kids and teens gathered at JHS 231 in Springfield Gardens, Queens, to receive new bikes donated by Department of Correction staff. The event, dubbed “Christmas in July,” also included bike safety lessons provided by NYPD officers.

Parents expressed gratitude for the program, noting it helps reduce fear of uniformed personnel. Michelle Pemberton, a DMV worker whose grandsons attended, said, “It’s a good thing to see NYPD and Corrections working together positively.” Another parent, Patrice Tucker, who had four children receive bikes, called it “really nice” and added, “Merry Christmas.”

Participants like 17-year-old Keyarah Robinson appreciated her new turquoise mountain bike, noting it fits her well and is suitable for her height. Tazion Authers, age 7, was thrilled to get a blue bike, saying, “I like it because it has blue stuff.”

Children receiving bicycles at a community event — The event took place at a Queens middle school, with many children living in nearby shelters, highlighting the importance of community outreach.

According to Detective Tanya Duhaney of the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau, most children at the event reside in local shelters. She emphasized that the event was about showing care and engagement, especially during summer: “It’s important for our kids to see that we care about their well-being.”

Organized annually since 2018, “Christmas in July” has distributed about 700 bikes so far, with more to come. The bikes were purchased through a friendly competition among the city’s jails, reflecting the department’s commitment to community service and support for all social backgrounds.

As DOC Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie noted, equitable access to resources such as bikes and books is vital for children’s development. She expressed pride in how the corrections department combined competitive spirit with giving back to the community.