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This Christmas, hundreds of children in Northwest Houston didn't have to worry about what they were getting this year.
This month, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and HDR Engineering hosted a bike giveaway which was the fifth annual iteration of the event. The event was held at the Acres Homes Multi-Service Center. As a result of the event, more than 200 kids in Northwest Houston received bikes and helmets for free as well as HEB gift cards.
“This giveaway is a blessing for those parents who may be on a limited income, so I want to personally thank HDR and H-E-B for making sure that no family and no kid is left behind during this holiday season,” Turner said.
According to the city, the giveaway initiative started after Hurricane Harvey impacted the area in 2017. As a result of the disaster, many families in the area had trouble buying presents for the holiday season. Since its inaugural giveaway, the program has seen more than 300 bikes find their new home with community families.
“There’s nothing more important at this time of year than giving thanks for everything we’re blessed to have, and part of that is giving back to those in our communities who may need some support,” HDR Area Manager David Weston said.
Turner's participation in the event is good news for the community. He recently tested positive for COVID and had spent the previous few days recovering and isolating. When he tested positive, he reported minor symptoms. Turner's bout with COVID is sadly representative of what the entire city is dealing with right now as the omicron variant rips its way through the community. COVID cases are once again on the rise in the community, causing concern for public leaders as the holiday season ensues.