Bikers open their hearts

Motorcyclists from York and Potter counties played Santa Claus for the faithful volunteers of the Christmas House in Coudersport last weekend, donating $4,000 to help them in their mission to help the needy.

NDHP is a motorcycle fraternity with dozens of members from both counties.

Last year's $4,000 donation helped the organization buy more than 200 pairs of new shoes for children. Alyce Reese, a co-founder and current director of Christmas House, said her team has any number of options for this year's NDHP contribution.

Over the past five years, NDHP has given the organization more than $13,000.

"This is something we treasure and something we love to do," said NDHP president Larry Gross in presenting the check to Christmas House volunteers after about 60 bikers roared into town.

"Sometimes people refer to Christmas House as 'the place where miracles happen'," Reese said. "Perhaps the support of this motorcycle organization is proof that miracles really do happen. We are truly blessed."

Christmas House is nearing its busy season, as the volunteers begin pulling together Christmas presents and food items for families in need. Private donations and volunteer labor keep the operation rolling; no government funds are involved.

All year 'round, Christmas House helps victims of fires, natural disasters, employment dislocation, domestic stress, economic setbacks and other crises cope by donating food, clothing, household appliances and other items.

The volunteers coordinate their activities with schools, churches and social service organizations to assure that they reach as many needy families as possible.