MOORE COUNTY, N.C. --Earl Wright has delivered Christmas joy to thousands of children for 25 years. That’s why everyone calls him "Project Santa".

This year will be the last time Wright will hold his annual bike giveaway for kids. He tells us he’s just worn out by the long hours and work that it takes to collect and repair 1000 or more bikes every year.

He is also confronting the impact of COVID-19. The restrictions to prevent the spread of the virus are impacting his ability to gather all the bikes. But he knows that because the pandemic has been so devastating for so many people, his bike giveaway is especially needed this year.

“This is my last year. So, I’m here to do anything that we can to help this COVID thing get better. We’re just here to help. Whatever we can do to help, “ Wright said.

Wright also plans to donate other things, like toys, along with the bicycles. His final giveaway is set to happen on Christmas Day at the old IGA parking lot in Southern Pines.