Houston Metro donates bikes to kids

A group of Houston Metro mechanics is spreading some holiday cheer by giving dozens of disadvantaged children in Houston’s Fifth Ward a new set of wheels.

The annual bike donation effort is led by Metro bus mechanic Horace Marves, who for the past 14 years has been collecting money from coworkers. Marves and fellow mechanics donate about $2 to $3 each week to the bike donation fund, year-round, to put a smile on a child’s face.

“It’s a good feeling when you inspire the kids,” said Marves. He added that there are never enough bikes, but says every child walks away with a wrapped gift.

Marves and his team raised $1,374 this year, translating into about 28 bikes – just more than half of last year’s 47. Various outside donors bumped last year’s number to about 150 bikes in total.

“Every year, we try to make as many people as possible happy,” said Marves. “And we’ll try again next year.”