The spirit of giving is palpable in Hickory this holiday season as the Bill McDonald Scholarship Fund Committee steps up once again with a generous donation of $4,500 to support children in need. This contribution, evenly split between the Hickory Fire Department's Bikes for Tykes program and the Hickory Police Department's Cops for Tots program, will bring smiles and joy to many young faces.
For the 10th consecutive year, these funds from an organization named in honor of a former city leader will help purchase bicycles and sports equipment for underprivileged youth. The Hickory Fire Department's program, in particular, will benefit from these funds to provide new bikes to children through the Catawba County Christmas Bureau and other local initiatives.
Furthermore, the Cops for Tots Christmas Wish House will use its portion of the donation to bestow sports equipment on children 13 and under who are living through challenging circumstances. According to a statement obtained by www.hickorync.gov, Susan B. McDonald, the widow of the late Mayor William R. "Bill" McDonald III, reflected on her husband’s legacy, "Bill's spirit surely beams with joy knowing the funds raised in his name are benefiting the boys and girls of Hickory, a community he held dear."
The scholarship fund, established in memory of Mayor McDonald in 2015, not only supports holiday giveaways but also aids children aged 15 and under in participating in City of Hickory recreation programs. Eligibility for such benefits requires residency within city limits and adherence to certain application deadlines. A first come, first served policy dictates fund allocation, with two awards per year marking the maximum for recipients. An article from www.hickorync.gov notes that important to potential recipients are to complete an application for consideration without a history of expulsion or suspension from school or parks programs.
Year-round donations and various events like the Trick or Trot 5K and the annual Christmas parade bolster the fund, allowing it to continue its mission in favoring children's health and well-being.
