The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office is preparing for its annual Christmas Bicycle Giveaway and Sheriff Craig Webre is reminding residents that donations are still being accepted. More than 4,100 bicycles have been distributed to needy children of Lafourche Parish and Grand Isle through the program now in its 24th year. In 2016, 300 bikes were delivered to children throughout Lafourche Parish. Donations are accepted year-round, and used bicycles are refurbished and repaired by inmate workers.

Sheriff Webre asks that any bicycles donated at this time be either brand new or in need of only minor repairs due to the giveaway taking place around mid-December. Monetary donations are also accepted, and checks should be made payable to the Lafourche Deputies Association with the words “Bike Giveaway” in the memo line. Bicycles and monetary donations may be dropped off at any Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office location through the parish.

“This program is only possible thanks to generous citizens who donate cash and bikes for the program,” said Sheriff Webre. “For anyone considering helping a less fortunate family during the holidays, please consider donating to the program. In some cases, this may be the most significant gift, or the only gift, each of these children will receive this Christmas.”

Beginning in December, anyone who knows of a family in need with a child who would enjoy receiving a bicycle this Christmas can submit the child’s name, age, gender, address, phone number, and other qualifying information. To submit a child’s name for consideration, please contact the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office at (985) 632-4882 beginning next month. Due to high demand, requests should be limited to no more than two bicycles per family.