Duval County

Publix donated, delivered 43 new bikes to Jacksonville’s Daniel Kids

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A special delivery to Daniel Kids on Thursday helped some of Jacksonville’s most vulnerable children.

Publix dropped off 43 new, donated bikes.

Twelve-year-old Izaiah Thomas said he has big plans for his new set of wheels.

He told Action News Jax, “I just want to go home and ride it.”

Leaders of the nonprofit said most of their students have been struggling for almost their entire lives.

CEO & President, Lesley Wells explained, “A lot of kids that live here at Daniel on campus have had a lot of trauma in their life. A lot of them are in the foster care system.”

Action News Jax reported Wednesday that Family Support Services said nearly 900 kids in Duval and Nassau counties need foster homes.

Leaders at Daniel Kids’ said they’re working to renovate a building so they can help more local children, specifically those with special needs.

Thursday was all about the bikes and their recipients.

Well explained, “A lot of our children don’t have that first bike – this will be their first bike. It’s a tremendous opportunity and a tremendous gift.”

Izaiah said his first bike was stolen.

The 12-year-old was more than ready to ride again.

“I’m very excited,” he said.

The 43 bikes were a portion of the 400 being delivered to at-risk kids across the Southeast.

Any community member interested in donating or helping Daniel Kids can find instructions here.