Charities give out bikes, toys to children

HOUSTON Several churches and charitable groups organized the party on Tidwell near Mesa in northeast Houston today. At least 150 bicycles and 800 other wrapped presents were given away randomly based on ticket numbers.

While a few parents told Eyewitness News they were disappointed about not receiving a bike, most were just thankful for a free gift.

"We just want them to be thankful that God is able to do something for them in their lives," said one charity worker. "That he's able to share something with them. And we apologized that we couldn't get them a bike. But we want every child to walk away from here with something in their hands for Christmas."

Many parents said their children would not have received any gifts this year without the help of the community.