Release posted on 12-11-25 at 9:40 AM

St. Petersburg Police officers will give out bikes to needy kids at a special holiday event held in the Police Department parking lot on Sunday, December 14th. All invited families will begin arriving at 11 a.m., with the event ending at 1 p.m.

Interested media should enter the police parking lot through the 2nd Avenue North entrance.

***Please note: These bikes are already matched with pre-registered children so please don't invite the public to attend if you air any information before the event.***

Officers will fit the kids with helmets, then the children will pick out a bicycle, complete with a bike lock and bike lights.

The bicycles were donated through the generosity of St. Pete Fools Charities, who will also be providing food for all attendees. Not only are they bringing cheer to children for the holidays, but they're also creating meaningful opportunities for positive interaction between police officers and families.

This tradition began on December 20th, 2019, when St. Pete Fools Club member Alex DeJesus spotted an officer purchasing a bicycle for a teen at a Walmart checkout. He offered to buy a second bike for another childand three days later, he returned to the Police Department with a dozen more. The number has continued to grow every year.

This year, the holiday cheer extends even further. CSX and the First Responders Children's Foundation generously donated toys for participating families.

LaSandra Boykin, Director of Community Investments at CSX, shared:
"Our work with the First Responders Children's Foundation and the Toy Express program reflects CSX's deep commitment to those who serve on the frontlinesand also strengthening the bonds between responders and the communities they protect. It's a meaningful way for CSX to give back and ensure these families feel supported, especially during the holiday season."

Jillian Crane, President and CEO of First Responders Children's Foundation, added:
"At First Responders Children's Foundation, our annual Toy Express is a heartfelt mission that brings first responders and the children they serve together. Thanks to CSX, our generous donors and toy partners, we share one purpose: creating moments of joy and trust. When children light up while engaging with their local first responders, they're meeting the people who help keep them safe every day."