That's because community members rallied to replace their bikes, which were stolen from the fenced backyard at Elizabeth House on Nov. 27.

Those bikes had been donated by families at Head-Royce School last month weeks earlier.

Parishioners at St. Augustine's Church, led by Jackie Frost, initiated the drive to replace the stolen bikes. "We had a great response," she said. "I was really touched."

Elizabeth House director Francel D'Andrea was equally pleased by the community response. Ten bikes were donated for children now living at the facility. The youngsters also received locks for the bikes.

"I am just inspired. People are so wonderful about rallying around a cause," D'Andrea said. "It seems they are just waiting for an opportunity to be generous.

The organization is still seeking bikes for mothers living at the facility -- and for additional children, ages 8 to 12, who are expected to be move into Elizabeth House with their mothers in January.

D'Andrea said Elizabeth House can't accept used bikes that need major repairs. "It ends up being an expense to us," she said. "They have to be in nearly new condition."

Anyone able to donate a bike should call Frost at 510-652-6776 or Justine Dawson, the Elizabeth House volunteer coordinator, at 510-658-1380, ext. 4.

Contra Costa Times
Knight Ridder
(925) 943-8270
www.contracostatimes.com