Lions team with inmates to give kids refurbished bikes

Last week, the Aberdeen Lions gave away more than 150 bikes that had been restored by inmates at Stafford Creek.

The Lions collect used bicycles donated throughout the year by members of the community, then send them to Stafford Creek Corrections Center, where inmates fix them up to look like new before giving them away to local families.

“It’s a win-win,” said Aberdeen Lions Club Member Gene Schermer. “The inmates are learning a trade, and we’re able to take old bikes and give them to needy kids or adults.”

All, from trikes to full-size bikes, looked practically new after being overhauled.

“It’s an amazing sight to see the kids walk around the warehouse and realize they can select any bike they want,” said another Lion.

”Really?” one little girl said on Saturday. “They’re free? I can pick out any one?”

Before helping the families load up their early Christmas presents, Lions Club members made sure the tires were properly inflated, and the seats and handlebars were adjusted for a perfect fit.

Many of the participating kids filled out applications at the Aberdeen Salvation Army, but some were singled out by schools and the Christmas for Kids program.