SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT AND CALFIRE PROVIDE BIKES FOR NEEDY KIDS

December 22, 2009 (Ramona) -- Sheriff William D. Gore announced this year’s Christmas Bicycle Program, which provided pre-selected deserving children with a free bicycle, helmet and bike lock. The event was hosted by the Ramona Sheriff’s Substation and firefighters from the Ramona CalFire Fire Department.

This year, 22 children from the Ramona area each received a bicycle, helmet and lock at the CalFire FD Fire Station #80, 829 San Vicente Road, Ramona on December 18th.

Abandoned bicycles received by the Sheriff’s Department throughout the year were distributed among several Sheriff’s Stations. The Ramona Sheriff’s Substation received over a dozen bikes which were then refurbished into like-new condition by firefighters from Ramona CalFire.

In addition, several new and used bicycles were donated directly to this event by sworn members from both the Ramona Sheriff’s Substation and CalFire Fire Department, bringing the total to 22 bicycles. The Ramona Water District donated $100 to be used for purchasing parts and helmets.

Epic Medics provided the protective bicycle helmets for each child receiving a bike. Ramona Sheriff’s Deputy Pamela Murphy, who helped organize the event for the last two years, donated security locks for each bicycle. Ramona area schools, churches, and various community organizations identified the children who range in age from 3 to 14.

"This is a great example of law enforcement, the fire department and the business community coming together for a worthy cause,” commented Sheriff Bill Gore prior to the event. “This year, 22 children will not only receive a bicycle for the holidays; but will also receive the equipment to keep them safe on the bikes.”