PCF donates Christmas bikes to Cloverdale FFA toy drive

Members of the Cloverdale FFA accept a donation of 50 bikes for their toy drive from correctional officers Darren Anderson and Jeff Smith. (Courtesy photo)

PUTNAMVILLE -- The Shifting Gears Program of Putnamville Correctional Facility recently donated 50 children's bicycles to the Clovers, Cops and Christmas effort spearheaded by the Cloverdale High School FFA and the Cloverdale Police Department.

The FFA teamed with local police departments to serve approximately 1,500 needy people with a toy drive, Christmas dinner and visit from Santa.

The bikes from PCF were a big part of the effort, allowing parents of underprivileged children the chance to give their kids a bicycle this Christmas.

Under the supervision of program coordinator Brady Moss and program director Kelli Searing, the Shifting Gears program has a goal to repair used bikes and clean them up for those that are in need.

Offenders are trained to repair bicycles, spend time learning the mechanics, and appreciate the opportunity to give back to the surrounding community.

"We enjoy showing the offenders how great it is to assist our communities in a positive way, especially during the holiday season," PCF Superintendent Brian Smith said.