Annual Bikes for Tikes program began in 2002
(MILAN, Ind.) -- Milan Community Schools continued their Christmas tradition called Bikes for Tikes this year.
The annual donation drive was started by former Milan science teacher Steve Gutzwiller in 2002. It is now led by the school's work-based learning teacher Jeff Stutler and his students.
Each year, the high school collects bicycles which are then given to Samaratin's Hope Chest who distrubutes them to local children.
The program had 26 new bikes that were collected and donated this year.
"It's been a good program. We've had a lot of fun and the students enjoy it. And we look forward to keeping this tradition going every Christmas season," Stutler told The 812.
The program goes beyond bicycles as the Milan Band hosted a food drive during their Winter Concert and received nearly 1,000 items. Community members can also 'adopt a family' and provide clothing to kids.
It led to the bikes, food and clothing being brought together at St. Paul Lutheran Church and then given to community members.
High school principal Ryan Langferman estimated that nearly 50 local families received a donation this year.
Want to get involved in the Bikes for Tikes program next year? You can either donate a bike or make a monetary donation to Milan High School. The school is able to buy the bikes tax-free.
"People can donate year-round, of course Christmas time, but we've had people bring in bikes at all times of the year," Stutler said.
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