Santa Claus Ride: Cyclists deliver holiday gifts to those in need

A group of cyclists participated in the Santa Claus Ride in Windsor, Ont. on Dec. 14, 2024. (Robert Lothian/CTV News Windsor)

A group of cyclists spent Saturday morning pedalling through Downtown Windsor, delivering holiday cheer to those in need.

Brian Belanger founded the Santa Claus Ride 11 years ago, which provides goods to those experiencing homelessness as a means of giving back to the community.

Over the years, participants have delivered bike apparel or canned goods, but now Belanger said as they cruise the roads, they hand out gift cards.

“When you give that small donation of a $5 gift card for a coffee or a $10 subway meal card to those that are living in a box, coming out of the garbage cans for food and stuff like that … There’s a lot going on that I don’t normally see,” Belanger told CTV News following the 11th annual ride.

“So, one day out of my life, I touch base with those that are less fortunate than me.”

Starting at the Bike Kitchen on Walker Road, the 12 cyclists dressed in festive garb rode into the downtown. They stopped at each alley in search of someone who needed a reason to smile.

Belanger estimates they handed out about $700 worth of gift cards.

“Just give it, and they get to smile,” Belanger said.

“Sometimes you give one card to give to them, to give it to another person.”

Belanger said he started the informal event after a ride across Canada in support of ALS. He noted the hospitality during the trip inspired him to give back to his community.

As more people are in need of financial support each year, Belanger said the inspiration has grown stronger to make sure they can help the community when the holiday season rolls around.

“So long as we put a smile on some people's faces,” Belanger said.