HSM supports Bikes for Tykes initiative

Furniture World News Desk on 12/29/2013

HSM, the global manufacturer of components and provider of integrated solutions to the transportation, furniture, bedding and a growing number of diversified markets, recently joined the Hickory Fire Department in support of Bikes for Tykes, a program that delivers bikes each year to children in need in the Hickory, N.C., area.

HSM, which donated $10,000 to the Hickory Fire Department towards the purchase of new bikes, had several employee volunteers on-hand Monday, Dec. 16 and Tuesday, Dec. 17 at the Hickory American Legion Fairgrounds to assist representatives from the fire department in distributing the bikes to Catawba County, N.C., families with children. HSM employees and fire department volunteers helped assemble the bikes on Dec. 4 at the HSM regional sales office. In total, 647 bikes were distributed.

“This year was extra special for me because I actually observed the smiling faces and tears, maybe a few of my own, that were present on the parents’ faces when they drew out a winning ticket,” said Hickory Senior Firefighter Marty Kanupp, who spearheads the annual bike drive. “The volunteers from HSM that helped assemble, distribute and work behind the scenes were amazing. We couldn't have asked for a better turn out. Together, we reached out in our community and touched a lot of people this holiday season.”

In addition to the bikes, the program also helped families receive age appropriate toys and clothes, stocking stuffers such as educational books and coloring books, a choice of turkey or ham and a $15 grocery gift card.

Bikes for Tykes’ mission is to ensure every child in America has the opportunity to own a bicycle and share that joy, by refurbishing used bicycles and giving them to less fortunate children. For 25 years, Bikes for Tykes has strived to fulfill its mission of providing bicycles to children who need them across North America.

“We are proud to support Bikes for Tykes and the Hickory Fire Department, as they are doing great work to support local children in need,” noted Lee Lunsford, executive vice president chief operating officer, HSM. “Many of us have fond childhood memories of getting a shiny new bike around the holidays, and we are happy to help spread that same joy among children in our own community this holiday season.”

About HSM: One of North Carolina’s largest employers, HSM is a privately held company that brings together approximately 2,500 employees in more than 50 manufacturing plants in 17 states and China to serve a wide array of diverse customers and markets. Based in Hickory, N.C., the company has expanded its global presence and moved beyond core furniture and bedding markets to embrace new growth opportunities in transportation, healthcare, packaging and government sectors. Please visit www.hsmsolutions.com for additional information.