HICKORY, N.C. — HSM recently joined the Hickory Fire Department in support of Bikes for Tykes, a program that delivers bikes each year to children in need in the Hickory area.

HSM, which donated $10,000 to the Hickory Fire Department toward the purchase of new bikes, had several employee volunteers on hand on Dec. 16 and 17 at the Hickory American Legion Fairgrounds to assist representatives from the fire department in distributing the bikes to families with children.

HSM employees and fire department volunteers helped assemble the bikes on Dec. 4 at the HSM regional sales office. In total, 647 bikes were distributed.

“This year was extra special for me because I actually observed the smiling faces and tears, maybe a few of my own, that were present on the parents’ faces when they drew out a winning ticket,” said Hickory Senior Firefighter Marty Kanupp, who spearheads the annual bike drive. “The volunteers from HSM that helped assemble, distribute and work behind the scenes were amazing. We couldn't have asked for a better turnout. Together, we reached out in our community and touched a lot of people this holiday season.”

In addition to the bikes, the program also helped families receive age appropriate toys and clothes, stocking stuffers such as educational books and coloring books, a choice of turkey or ham, and a $15 grocery gift card.

For the last 25 years, Bikes for Tykes’ mission has been to ensure that every child in America has the opportunity to own a bicycle by refurbishing used bicycles and giving them to less fortunate children.

“We are proud to support Bikes for Tykes and the Hickory Fire Department, as they are doing great work to support local children in need,” said Lee Lunsford, executive vice president, chief operating officer, HSM. “Many of us have fond childhood memories of getting a shiny new bike around the holidays, and we are happy to help spread that same joy among children in our own community this holiday season.”

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