Hells Angels Purchases Bicycles At Walmart And Gives Them To Children In Need

A California-based Hells Angels group purchased bicycles at a Walmart and handed them out to children in need during an annual toy drive. This is really somewhat of a shocking news to many. When one thinks of the Hells Angels, thoughts that come to mind include burly, bearded, and tattooed men. Scenes from Sons of Anarchy may also come to mind. However, contrary to popular perception, the organization also has a soft side.

The group apparently lined up at a Walmart and camped overnight to take advantage of the Black Friday savings. When the shop opened its doors, the members headed straight to the toy aisle and snatched up every single bicycle – all 200 of them – from the rack and proceeded straight to the checkout counter. The little bicycles were then donated to Poverello House, a homeless youth center based in Fresno. The group has been doing this generous deed since 1998 and has become a long standing tradition.

Hells Angels buying bicycles for children reveal a whole different aspect of the organization. According to member Merl Hefferman in a KMPH interview, people too often form an uneducated conclusion about the group, but the gang is made up of caring people who are genuinely concerned for the well-being of children who were dealt a bad card in life.

Hells Angels set for 16th annual toy run to Poverello House http://t.co/Cw5ZanRDJs http://ift.tt/1vHoZce

— Fresno Bee (@FresnoBee) December 2, 2014

Hells Angels’ reputation, though, isn’t completely undeserved. While there are several hundred chapters spread all over the world, a few have been known to be involved in criminal activity. Various police agencies have also investigated the group for their involvement in drug trafficking, prostitution, extortion, and intimidation. Members, though, maintain that the group is all about organizing motorcycle road trips, rallies, and hosting occasional charity events. Any criminal activity tied back to the organization is simply the work of a few bad apples.

While Harley Davidsons and bar fights often come to mind when it comes to the controversial motorcycle group, the reality that the public often doesn’t see or ignores is far different. The Hells Angel members who bought bicycles for children show that the organization can also be a positive beacon for needy families.

[photo credit: Roy Lister]

Hells Angels Purchases Bicycles At Walmart And Gives Them To Children In Need