Fayetteville's own St. Nick, Moses Mathis, brings joy to 1,100 families

Moses Mathis, knick-named The Bicycle Man, is a name well recognized around town. His ministry is in its 21st year and seems to grow each and every year.

Just over 1,100 kids picked out new, or nearly new bicycles early Thursday morning from his warehouse located at 4428 Bragg Blvd. in Fayetteville.

Mathis, 73, along with his team of volunteers accepts donated bikes throughout the year and then restores them to give to children whose families cannot afford to buy a bicycle.

"This bike is perfect," exclaimed Jeremiah Clinton, age 8. "I've always wanted a trick bike - and red is my favorite color."

For years local businesses, churches and property owners have leased Mathis space for $1, but given the state of the economy over the past few years, Mathis is operating out of his fourth location in the last five years. Unfortunately Mathis will have to vacate the current Bragg Blvd. location on New Year's Day since the property owner needs to lease it for the full amount, which Mathis cannot afford to pay. This has been the story of his life for years now, but something always comes through.

"I'm hoping somebody who has a good heart will give me a permanent place," he said.

Six years ago Mathis was presented the President’s Call to Service Award certificate and a letter from President Bush to commemmorate his work.

To see an interview from Mathis and video footage posted on the Huffington Post here.