Since January, Richard Mahoney has given away approximately 419 bicycles to children and community members in need.

Last December, he and his daughter, Amy Jackson, organized a Christmas-themed giveaway at the Mexico Elks Lodge. There, he had 177 bikes earmarked for children who had no idea what was coming to them. At the time, Mahoney said he had an idea but no real plan. This year, however, he has a better idea of how things work and is preparing to up the ante.

“I’m having so much fun,” Mahoney said. “I am so organized this year.”

Mahoney said he hopes to give away 200 bikes in a similar giveaway at the Elks Lodge on Dec. 19. Bikes will be saved for children in advance, and each will be assigned a number to keep things running smoothly.

But children won’t just be getting a bike this year.

Mahoney said every bike will either have a basket or a gift bag full of fun “basket stuffers” such as sidewalk chalk, bubble guns and Squishables.

On Sunday, Mahoney didn’t have any bikes, but by Monday, he was up to eight, and the donations just keep coming. Mahoney has just 50 days to turn those eight bikes into 200, which won’t be an easy feat, but continued community support allows him to maintain his faith that he can pull it off again.“

People are believing in me now,” he said.

Day after day, Mahoney sits outside his home repairing bikes. The more bikes he finishes, the more excited he gets.

Mahoney said every little bit helps and no contribution is too small, but he is an “old school guy,” so he can only accept monetary donations via cash or check. Those interested are also welcome to purchase bike accessories, helmets or bicycles online through Walmart’s website and list “Richard Mahoney” as the pick-up person.

Anyone interested in contributing or inquiring about getting a bike this Christmas can call him at 713-828-9690, or send him a message on Facebook messenger.

“I’m having so much fun, I’m going 100 miles an hour,” Mahoney said.