Durham, N.C. — The 60 bicycles sitting in a Durham Police Department storage facility will find new riders this Christmas, and 60 people will get a new set of wheels courtesy of a cooperative effort between police and nine area non-profit service organizations.

The bikes are various sizes and in various states of repair. All were found in the city of Durham and brought to the police department, where they have remained unclaimed for more than 60 days. 

In years past, the bikes would be auctioned off, but this year police decided to give a little to those who have less.

Chris Stone, executive director of Alamance County's People That Care, Inc., will play the role of Santa for children getting a bike from his organization. 

"This is very big," Stone said. "The need is growing every year."

Tamika Price, evidence technician for Durham police, feels the joy of giving as well. "It is such a blessing to give back to the community," she said.

Terry Shuff picked up seven bikes for Bull City Outreach Ministries.

Not all of them will go to children. For adults without transportation, the bikes make a big difference.  "It is a huge thing in their life not to have to walk everywhere," he said.