WEST CHESTER, PA — In a burst of holiday cheer, more than 150 volunteers transformed Pine Street Carpenters’ workshop into Santa’s busiest satellite shop on Thursday night, assembling 119 brand-new bicycles for children in need across Chester County and beyond.
The annual “100 Wheels Project,” launched in 2008 by the West Chester design-build firm, has become a cornerstone of local holiday giving. Over 18 seasons, Pine Street Carpenters has delivered 1,755 bicycles to families identified by community partners, ensuring each child receives a bike tailored specifically for them — and just in time for Christmas.
In the weeks leading up to the event, Pine Street works with regional nonprofits to identify families in need, purchase each bike, and coordinate delivery. Once assembled, the bicycles are handed off to partner organizations who, as the press release puts it, “work directly with Santa” to make sure every child gets their holiday surprise.
This year’s partners included Friends Association for the Care and Protection of Children, Family Service of Chester County, The Care Center, Saint Agnes Day Room, Home of the Sparrow, People’s Pantry at Church Road, Kate’s Casa, Norristown Area High School, and Women Destined for Change.
“These agencies provide an incredible service to our community year-round,” said owner Brendon Dolan. “We are grateful for their service – and for the many volunteers and businesses who partner with us to help make this project a success.”
The evening-long build relied on a broad coalition of helpers: Pine Street employees and their families, local residents, clients, nonprofit staff, and industry partners. Area businesses also sponsored many of the bicycles, including O’Rourke & Sons, Pennsy Corp, Sage and Sons, Windle’s Water Works, Kennett Square Preschool Cooperative, Marvel Masonry, R.J. DeLuca & Sons, Raymond Dolce Landscaping, Alpine Flooring, and 1st Class Glass.
Safety gear is an essential part of the tradition as well. Through a grant from Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware’s Trauma Program, more than 100 helmets were supplied this year to accompany the newly built bikes.
With tools buzzing, families working side by side, and rows of finished bikes gleaming under shop lights, Pine Street’s annual bike-build once again delivered a powerful message of generosity — proving that holiday magic is alive and well in West Chester.
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