Local bikers donate backpacks to kids in Montgomery County

DAYTON — A local group of bikers came together to help make sure kids that Children’s Services case workers serve have enough supplies as they head back to school.

The Ohio State Coalition of Clubs donated 200 backpacks to kinds at Montgomery County Children Services.

Bikers gathered out front of Haines Children’s Center and delivered the fully supplied backpacks Thursday afternoon.

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For COC member Larry Dinkins, the event was personal. He told News Center 7′s Michael Gordon that his children were in the system at one point.

“I know that these kids need things like this and to know they are loved is one of the reasons why I wanted to do this,” Dinkins said.

Tom Gauden, of Chosen Tribes Motorcycle Club, said he had “goosebumps” when he arrived at the donation event.

Gauden said he hoped the event showcases a positive and respectful image of bikes in the public.

“We want to bring unity between motorcycle clubs and show the American public that we are not bad people. We are everyday people and we love helping the communities,” Gauden said.

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Craig Rickett, associate director of the Children’s Services Division of the Montgomery County Department of Job and Family Services, said Thursday’s donation was “amazing.”

“We would not have been able to do this without the Ohio State Coalition of Clubs,” Rickett said.

Caseworkers will distribute them to children of all ages.

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