WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — A beloved bicycle shop in West Palm Beach is gearing up for its annual giveaway this weekend to make sure thousands of children have a merry Christmas.
A warehouse in the heart of the city is filled to the brim. Thousands of bicycles have been fixed up and shined up, and will roll into new homes this weekend.
"I heard a rumor that Santa Claus is coming!" said Jack Hairston, also known as 'Jack The Bike Man.'
Hairston is the man behind this incredibly generous mission.
"I’m one of Santa's best buddies, so that means I have to be ready," said Hairston.
Hairston has been trading bicycles for smiles for the last 20 years.
"We’ve been real busy for getting all the bicycles coordinated with Santa's wishes," said Hairston.
All year long, the workshop operates like a well oiled machine. But kids who get a bike must earn their spot on the good list with a commitment to community.
"If someone needs a bike and willing to work for it, they can do community hours and volunteer hours in exchange for a bicycle," said Hairston.
It's a gift that truly keeps on giving.
"We’ve made so many families happy by providing them with transportation. With all the poverty we have, a used, restored bicycle is like a Rolls Royce to some people, and you see that exact situation right here in Palm Beach County," said Hairston.