'Bicycle Man's' legacy: Thousands of children receive bikes in Fayetteville

Moses Mathis, dubbed "The Bicycle Man" spent years collecting and refurbishing bikes to give them to local children.

His wife Ann Mathis is continuing the tradition in honor of her late husband, and after 27 years, the operation has grown to serve children in Cumberland County and the five surrounding counties.

"Sometimes this is the first bike (a child) will have or the only only bike they'll get," Ann Mathis said.

Children were able to come , pick out a bike and take it home with them.

"As the years progressed, I'm learning a little bit more. It still can get very tedious but in the end, seeing the smiles on the kids faces, makes it a whole lot better," Ann Mathis said.

Ann Mathis said while she may be slowing down, the operation won't be.

The children who receive the bikes are selected by school counselors.