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Windjammers celebrate 36th Annual Toy Ride, spreading joy to children and families

The rumble of engines and the spirit of giving filled the air on Saturday, December 14th, as the Windjammers Motorcycle Club hosted its 36th Annual Toy Run.
The long-standing event brought together hundreds of riders and community members, all united by a common goal: to brighten the holidays for children and families served by the Children's Homes of Cleveland County and Core Family Services. The ride which began at the Cleveland Mall and ended at a Children's Homes site in Lattimore, was escorted by first responders and emergency vehicles for the 13 mile ride that had bystanders on only temporarily delayed but greatly entertained. Among the riders were spotted the Grinch and Santa himself, spreading holiday cheer and drawing waves and smiles from onlookers along the route.
This great event and effort has been going on for over three decades, and has been the catalyst behind the Windjammers' passion to support local children and families in need. This year's Toy Run was no exception, with participants arriving from across the region to deliver toys, donations, and heartfelt support.
The event culminated in a celebration at a local venue, where the community gathered to witness the handover of toys and financial contributions to representatives from the Children's Homes of Cleveland County and Core Family Services. Both organizations play a critical role in supporting vulnerable children and families, offering services ranging from residential childcare and independent living programs to mental health counseling and adoption services.
"The generosity of the Windjammers Motorcycle Club and everyone who participated in this year's ride is truly inspiring," said the Children's Homes Executive Director, Peter Bagley, "These donations make a tangible difference in the lives of the children and families we and our partner agencies serve all year round. In fact, the response was so phenomenal this year, we were even able to help several families in Swannanoa and Black Mountain who were ravaged by Hurricane Helene.
The Windjammers' commitment to this annual tradition goes back to 1988 and is a testament to the power of community and the spirit of giving," said a club representative. "Thanks to the Windjammers and all of their sponsors and supporters, countless children got to experience the joy and magic of the holiday season."
As the Windjammers Motorcycle Club's 36th Annual Toy Run came to a close, the sentiment was clear: this is more than just an event; it's a cherished tradition that embodies the true spirit of the season. In addition to the collection of toys and gifts, the club also raises funds to support the work of the Children's Home throughout the year and this year's gift of $21,000 presented on Saturday December 28th included the proceeds from the sale of a motorcycle that was raffled off and donated back to the club to be sold by the lucky winner, a Mr. Hamorsky of Charlotte.
The club's dedication to supporting local children and families continues to leave a lasting impact, proving that when a community comes together, incredible things can happen.
To learn how you too can support children and families please call 704-484-2558 and ask for Peter or email info@chccinc.org.


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