Family Focus

Carolina Panthers, WBT, WSOC-TV collecting bikes for kids most in need

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers, WBT and WSOC-TV are inviting the community to Bank of America Stadium on Tuesday, Dec. 15 from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. for a special Hancock’s Bikes for Kids collection day, when new bikes for need-based young people can be donated.

“We are excited to continue the legacy and brand of our annual Hancock’s Bikes for Kids event,” said WBT general manager Matt Hanlon. “Having the Carolina Panthers and WSOC-TV as partners this year and the ability to collect the bikes at Bank of America Stadium is special for our listeners and fans. This year we recognize the need is greater than ever and we’re thrilled to be able to provide children a bike during the holidays this year.”

New bikes can be dropped off at Bank of America Stadium’s Lowe’s (East) Gate plaza on Mint Street. WBT and WSOC-TV will host live coverage of the collection throughout the day. Panthers mascot Sir Purr will be on site from 12-1 p.m.

The special collection day is part of the larger Hancock’s Bikes for Kids campaign that runs from Nov. 22 - Dec. 15. Hancock’s Bikes for Kids was started by retired WBT-AM radio personality John Hancock 27 years ago and has collected nearly 20,000 new bikes for children since its inception.

On Dec. 19, the donated bikes will be distributed to kids who will be identified by Crisis Assistance Ministry and Thompson Child and Family Focus.

“The Carolina Panthers are pleased to team up with our partners NewsTalk 1110 WBT-AM and WSOC-TV to support this year’s Hancock’s Bikes for Kids,” said Panthers director of community relations Riley Fields. “Through the generosity of our community and the advocacy of John Hancock, thousands of children have been served through this important holiday program, and we are hopeful folks will again support this year’s bike drive and continue the tradition of providing joy to need-based children in our community.”

Several community partners that have come together for this year’s collection including Frito-Lay, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, Crisis Assistance Ministry, Northside Baptist Church and Thompson Child and Family Focus.

If you have an inspiring story to share, email Kevin Campbell, public affairs manager at WSOC-TV/WAXN-TV/Telemundo Charlotte, at Kevin.Campbell@wsoctv.com.