Local News

'It's my passion now': Bicycle Man's widow continues holiday tradition

Moses Mathis, known as the "Bicycle Man" in Fayetteville, passed away 3 years ago. For 26 years he let children have their pick of donated bicycles he repaired for Christmas. It's a tradition his wife now continues.

Posted Updated

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Moses Mathis, known as the Bicycle Man in Fayetteville, passed away 3 years ago. For 26 years he let children have their pick of donated bicycles he repaired for Christmas. It's a tradition his wife now continues.

“And whatever bike that child chooses, that’s the bike he or she really wants, and that’s what makes me happy because they choose the bike,” Mathias said. “It’s awesome. It is really awesome to see the smiles on the kids’ faces.”

Some years, almost 1000 children have lined up to claim their bike. Mathis said their smiles light up the room.

With bikes of all sizes, for girls and boys, Mathis said it wouldn't be possible without donations from companies and individuals as well as the volunteers.

“And they’re here, and they work on bikes from January until December,” Mathias said.

Social workers at school systems in 6 counties help select the children who get the bikes.

Mathis said it is a labor of love in honor of her husband.

“I do that in the memory of Moses and his dream. This was his passion. Now I understand it, and it’s my passion now,” Mathias said.

This year's giveaway is December 17, but donations are being accepted at the warehouse on Wynfare Drive until December 15.

 Credits 

Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.