On Wednesday, May 7, 2014, the Sacramento Police Department was honored to donate 16 bicycles and helmets to students at St. HOPE Public School 7 (PS7) in Oak Park.   

The bikes will allow the children to participate in the Kids Duathlon put on by Eppies’s Great Race.  In addition, race fees and transportation the day of the race for the bicycle recipients are being sponsored through yesterday’s event.  The event also emphasized awareness of bicycle safety around schools.  Sacramento Police Department officer Shannon Whent spoke with the children about the importance of bicycle safety and proper fitting of helmets.  Members of the Police Department assisted the children with helmet fittings and donated additional helmets to children in need.   

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  We are very fortunate to be able to give several children the opportunity to participate in Eppie’s Great Race who otherwise may not have had this chance.    

Education of our youth is one of the greatest investments in the future of Sacramento; to that end, ensuring their safety when negotiating traffic around schools, or travelling to and from home, is essential.   Participating in a bicycle race can allow young riders to further appreciate bicycle safety and encourage physical fitness habits.