Fallen officer's bike giveaway tradition expands, spreads holiday cheer in Sinton and Corpus Christi

Ortiz began the bike giveaway while serving on the CCPD force, often surprising children he encountered while on patrol — especially during the holiday season.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Children in the city of Sinton — and some in Corpus Christi — will soon be riding new bicycles just in time for Christmas, thanks to a passion project started by late Corpus Christi Police Officer Vicente Ortiz Jr.

Ortiz began the bike giveaway while serving on the CCPD force, often surprising children he encountered while on patrol — especially during the holiday season. What started as a small act of kindness has grown into a meaningful tradition.

After Ortiz’s passing, his family chose to continue the mission, with support from officers from both the Corpus Christi Police Department and the Sinton Police Department.

Senior Officer Jose Flores, who worked closely with Ortiz, says the giveaway reflects Vicente’s generous spirit.

Flores said last year the effort began with just four bikes. On Christmas Day, he and Ortiz’s shift would go out and deliver the bikes — something Ortiz frequently did, especially during Christmas. When Ortiz’s mother learned about the tradition, the family decided it was something they wanted to continue.

This year, the effort expanded significantly. A total of 28 bikes were collected and will be distributed to children in Sinton and Corpus Christi, primarily in the neighborhoods where Ortiz once patrolled.

Fallen officer’s bike giveaway tradition expands, spreads holiday cheer in Sinton and Corpus Christi

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