For the past six years, Pete Paulsen and his volunteers have spent time refurbishing bikes of all sizes to later donate to San Joaquin County children in need.
Bikes For Kids, a nonprofit that was formed in 2018, focuses on collecting used bikes and restoring them throughout the year to be distributed during the holidays.
However, at the annual holiday giveaway on Saturday, Paulsen said the event could be the last one held. That’s because the usual venue, Paulsen’s ranch in French Camp, will no longer be available.
“It is the last year. Unfortunately, I gave the property to my son and he has got other plans for the shop,” Paulsen said. “We are hoping we could find a warehouse … maybe someone could donate or help with it.”
He said the fate of the event was in limbo depending on if others were willing and interested to help it continue.
The giveaway started years ago when Paulsen’s friend was selling bikes at a yard sale. When his friend said the bikes would be scrapped if no one bought them, Paulsen asked if he could take them.