Two dozen bicycles were gifted to children living in North Philadelphia after a Secret Santa provided a generous gift to Temple University’s Department of Public Safety (TUDPS).

“Some of Santa’s elves have told us that bicycles are on a lot of Christmas lists that, especially this year, might have been hard to get. However, we are thankful for the anonymous donor who made a generous financial gift that allowed the Temple Police to purchase these very special presents this holiday season,” said Jennifer Griffin, Temple’s chief of police and vice president for public safety. 

The bicycles were distributed on Thursday, Dec. 5 to children who attend the Paul Dunbar School and Tanner Duckrey School as well as children living in Norris Apartments. The children were selected based on leadership, school attendance and more. 

“My bike is so cool because the bicycle is brand new and the gears change. It’s easier to ride and I also love the bright pink color," said Inaya Frascello, a sixth-grade student at Dunbar Elementary School.

While the donor is a mystery, Griffin said she is certain that the individual has deep admiration for the work of Temple Police and Temple’s entire Department of Public Safety.

“Whoever this anonymous donor is, we sincerely hope that their generosity serves as a reminder of why we celebrate the holidays: to give to others,” Griffin said. 

Dunbar Principal Yancy Bright said there’s nostalgia when picturing a child riding a new bicycle.

“We thank Chief Griffin and the entire Temple University Police Department for providing these bicycles to our students,” Bright said. “Their work in the community does not go unnoticed. We are always grateful for their support.” 

Temple Police Officer Leroy Wimberly was thrilled to be able to gift the bicycles to the children and appreciates the community’s support of TUPD.

“During this time of year, it’s especially heartwarming to see people step up in a big way. When you look at these children and see so many smiling faces, it’s a great feeling,” said Wimberly. “While most kids have to wait until the holidays to open gifts, these children get an early start with their new bikes.”

Wimberly added that giving back to the community is also part of Temple’s mission. 

“We value our communities—on our campuses, in North Philadelphia and beyond. At Temple, we aim to help our communities thrive. That’s what we’re doing here today,” he said. “Beyond that, policing is about connecting with the community, and we are proud to serve both the Temple and North Philadelphia communities.”

TUDPS is also gearing up for its 27th annual Children’s Holiday Party, which will be held on Sunday, Dec. 8, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Liacouras Center. 

“We are very lucky to have so many generous donors, including Herr’s Potato Chips, Tastykake, Jimmy Johns, 711, CityView Pizza, WaWa, Dunkin Donuts and more,” Wimberly said. “This will be one of the best holiday parties that we’ve ever hosted for our youth.”