The Big Blue Bike Barn was filled with excitement on December 6th as Bike Newport hosted its annual Holiday Bike Giveaway, matching 85 restored bicycles with Aquidneck Island children eager for their next — or first — set of wheels.
Over the course of four hours, dozens of local families streamed through the nonprofit’s headquarters, where children selected bikes adorned with big red ribbons. Each child left not only with a bicycle but also a helmet, bell, lights, and a quick lesson in bike safety. Several siblings and even some parents rode away with bikes of their own.
The giveaway caps months of preparation. Beginning each September, volunteers gather to repair and restore donated children’s bicycles, working through the fall to get each one road-ready.
“Seeing the kids’ faces light up when they realize the bike they chose is theirs to take home is unforgettable,” said volunteer Arlina Nunez, a regular participant in the event. “Moments like this remind us how powerful kindness is, how a simple gift can bring so much joy, hope, and love to a child and a community. It’s an honor to help create those smiles!”
The Holiday Bike Giveaway has become one of Bike Newport’s signature programs, distributing more than 1,200 children’s bikes on this single day over the years. Since launching its bicycle restoration and distribution program in 2012, the organization has given away more than 4,000 bikes to recipients of all ages. During the COVID-19 pandemic alone, Bike Newport distributed over 800 bicycles — efforts that earned the organization national recognition as the Bicycle Advocacy Organization of the Year from the League of American Bicyclists in 2021.
The event relies on a network of community partners. Newport Public Schools helps connect families to the program, while Ocean State Charities Trust, NewportFed, and Southcoast Health provide equipment and staff support. Peoples Credit Union sponsors the Community Bike Garage where volunteers do much of the restoration work, and Empire Tea and Coffee keeps participants warm with hot cider and cocoa.
Bike Newport is currently conducting its year-end fundraising campaign to support this and other community programs. Those interested in contributing can visit bikenewportri.org/join-the-movement.
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