Dormont Elementary Student Wins Bike from 'ThinkFirst' Initiative

A Dormont Elementary School third-grader won a new bicycle and helmet as part of an initiative that aims to educate children about bicycle safety.

Jessica Favo was randomly selected as a winner of a new, hot-pink bicycle and helmet as part of Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh's ThinkFirst for Kids & Teens initiative.

The program's coordinator, Darius Carlins, has been presenting new bikes to children since 1999. He estimates that the program, which is funded by Kohl's Department Stores, gives away approximately 30 new bicycles each year locally and hundreds more nationally.

"It's wonderful to see the reaction, not only of the winners but of all the kids," Carlins said, in a statement released by the Keystone Oaks School District. "It is obvious that they take this program seriously and if our discussion causes even one student to behave more safely, it is well worth it."

Carlins said children of all ages are participating more frequently in activities that put them on wheels. Without proper protection, a fall of as little as two feet can result in a skull fracture or other traumatic brain injury.

The program aims to educate children and teens about being active, and about how to prevent injuries during play by taking a few simple safety measures, such as wearing a helmet.

This information was provided by the Keystone Oaks School District.

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