GSF Foundation Committees Set to Donate 800 Children’s Bikes in 2025

In 2025, 800 children across the country will receive brand-new bikes thanks to the dedication of 12 GSF Foundation (GSFF) committees participating in this year’s Bike Build and Pedal to Perfection programs.

For many children, a bike is more than just a gift; it inspires freedom, adventure, and independence. These donations also promote healthy lifestyles by encouraging regular physical activity.

Through the Bike Build program, volunteers mentor children as they assemble their very own bikes. Along with the hands-on experience, each child receives a helmet, lock, and other safety gear. The program emphasizes not just bike building, but also life-building, teaching kids about goal-setting, safety, and the rewards of hard work.

In City of Industry, California, Golden State Foods (GSF) volunteers partnered with Thomas House Family Shelter to enrich the lives of 32 kids.

“Thomas House doesn’t just offer housing—it provides families the tools to rebuild their lives,” said Andy Cox, GSF’s Director of Continuous Improvement who also serves as GSFF Chair for the City of Industry Committee. “One child had never ridden a bike before, so we helped him build his confidence and balance. Seeing the kids’ pride as their bikes came together was unforgettable.”

In Burleson, Texas, the local GSFF committee donated an impactful 220 bikes to students and families at Staples Elementary.

“One mother told me her daughter’s only birthday wish was for a bike, but the mom couldn’t afford one,” shared Chelcea Shores, Staff Accountant and Foundation Chair for GSF Burleson. “We cried, laughed, and hugged as the mom realized both her daughters would be receiving bikes that day. The girls were ecstatic and already planning summer outings.”

In Irvine, California, the GSFF committee has partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County for four consecutive years, mentoring children on the nonprofit’s match-up waitlist. Check out a heartwarming video from their recent Bike Build event.

Meanwhile, the Foundation’s Pedal to Perfection program continues to raise school attendance by rewarding students who demonstrate strong attendance and positive behavior with a new bike, helmet, and lock.

For over eight years, QCD Spokane, Washington has partnered with Stevens Elementary to support students and meet needs throughout the school year. On delivery day, a QCD truck rolls up to the school with bikes ready to surprise the students—adding excitement to the annual raffle.

“Our long-standing partnership with Stevens Elementary continues to make a meaningful difference,” said Anna Voloshin, Human Resources Generalist and Communications Chair for the QCD Spokane Committee. “Pedal to Perfection provides many students the chance to receive their very first bike.  We’re proud to help students feel prepared, motivated, and excited for the future.”

Later this year, QCD Orlando, Florida plans to build 250 bikes with local children, and the QCD Fontana, California and KanPak Penn Yan, New York committees will provide 20 and 25 bikes, respectively.

These efforts, fueled by volunteers and community partnerships, reflect the GSF Foundation’s unwavering commitment to empowering kids, one bike at a time.