Aiken County Public Schools brought joy to kids by handing out 160 brand-new bikes during their third annual Holiday Bicycle Drive on December 19, 2024.

This year’s drive reached new heights thanks to generous donations from community members, partner organizations, and Aiken County Public Schools staff and faculty contributions, according to Aiken County Public Schools.

School counselors worked with the Department of Student Services to select deserving students from 21 local elementary schools. Because of the program’s growth, some schools received at least three bikes, while others had as many as 17.

Student Services Director Carl White began this tradition three years ago. In the district news release, White explained the drive’s purpose, “Each bike brings a smile and a sense of pride as a child experiences the joy of owning something of their own.”

The outcome shows what happens when schools and communities come together – what began as a small effort has grown into something extraordinary. Now, the Holiday Bicycle Drive is a major annual event impacting young lives across Aiken County.