Miracle on Wheels provides bikes for Coshocton County children at Christmas

Coshocton County Miracle on Wheels Christmas Bicycle Giveaway made Christmas brighter for 30 families this year.

“We would like to thank everyone who has helped this year,” said Kyra McWhorter, the program coordinator. “There are so many that we don't even know everyone.”

Miracle on Wheels helps provide bikes for children age 1-13, and this year just under 100 bikes will have new homes.

“We will start collecting bikes for next year in January,” McWhorter said. “Our goal is to fill the entire upstairs of Chase Bank.”

Chase Bank was the bike drop-off location this year and stored bikes for the collection. Woodforest Bank and Rent to Own were monetary donation drop-off spots.

A cash donation was received from Christmas Magic in Lights, and the Moose Lodge was very helpful along with several others in the community.

“A lady named Diane H. bought a necklace from Dean’s Jewelry, and the Moose Lodge raffled it with all profits going to bikes,” McWhorter said. “Dean’s donated a $25 gift card, and the Moose also raffled it with all profits going to bikes. A Loyal Order of the Moose member made a cash donation. Ladies of the Class of 1975 from Coshocton made a cash donation. Women of the Moose Chapter 357 collected money from friends and Moose members, and three bikes were purchased by WOTM members. Aligned Data at the old power plant donated bikes. Steve Grandstaff donated a bike, and there were many more donors.”

Bikes were distributed Dec. 22, just in time for Christmas.

“It feels warm and humbling because you’re seeing more than a present; you’re seeing a memory being made,” McWhorter said. “A bike isn’t just a gift; it’s freedom, independence and adventure wrapped in ribbons.”

Kyra’s brother Kodi McWhorter will take over the project next year.

“Kodi has always been a part of the bike program, just working behind the scenes,” said Amanda Bender, Kodi and Kyra’s mother. “Kyra will still be around to guide him when needed.”

Information on next year’s giveaway will be posted on the Coshocton County Miracle on Wheels Christmas Bicycle Giveaway Facebook page. Sign-ups will be Oct. 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Chase Bank in Coshocton.