Lexington kids in need surprised with new bikes and toys for Christmas

Every week, a group of kids and adults meet at Sts. Peter and Paul in Lexington as part of the "Conquest" program.

The program is geared toward at-risk youth. The goal is to give them the attention they deserve in a positive environment.

On Thursday night, that same group met for a Christmas party.

"You don't lack in food tonight. You don't lack in gifts tonight. You don't lack in attention and love," said Fr. Norman Fischer.

Dozens of children had gifts waiting for them behind a big curtain. For a special few, there were also brand new bicycles.

Thanks to Mary-Lynn Hinkel, six kids were chosen to receive a bicycle based on paragraph they wrote explaining why they wanted one.

For four years, Hinkel has done this in honor of her late husband Mark. He died in May 2015 when a drunk driver hit him while participating in the Horsey Hundred bicycle ride in Scott County.

"Dad loved cycling and loved the sport and loved being outdoors, but more than anything, dad loved to make people feel good and bring a smile to people's faces," said daughter Andrea Hinkel Creyer.

By the end of the evening, each child in the room had the chance to choose a present with some help. When you watched the faces of the volunteers and children in the room, it was hard to tell who enjoyed the moment most. Was it those getting or those giving?

"We find in our hearts and lives that we can do something about the pain and the suffering that we experience and make it a brighter blessing for others," said Fr. Fischer.

The group has hosted this party for about three years.