WHEELING — Bethlehem Apostolic Temple’s annual Christmas distribution of toys, food and other items happens this Saturday, and many lucky youths might just be pedaling home from the event with a new bike.

The event begins at 10 a.m. Saturday at the North Wheeling Dream Center, and the public will be served on a first-come, first-served basis. Anyone with a need is welcome, and no one is asked for any type of identification or proof of need.

Children do have to be present for them to receive toys, coats and clothing, Bishop Darrell Cummings noted.

“The big thing about this giveaway is the toys and the bicycles,” he said. “Excited to help as many families as possible.”

He estimated 75 to 100 bicycles will be available for giveaway on Saturday.

“Somebody who wants to remain anonymous just called and donated 50 bicycles to us,” Cummings continued. “They are brand new with the stickers still on them.”

In addition to the toys, bicycles and clothing for youths, there will also be clothing available for adults, he added.

“We’ll also have food. Hams and other meats like turkey and chicken will be available, as will the fixings that go with it — as will vegetables, fruits, pies and desserts,” Cummings said.

A big difference is that it is going to be warmer for visitors stepping into the basement at the Dream Center on Saturday, he continued. There is now a furnace there.

Historically, the basement housed the working ovens for what was a large bakery, and a furnace was never needed or installed.

“We believe this will make it more comfortable for people,” Cumming said.

He noted a local biker club dropped off toys this week, as did local law enforcement through Operation Toy Lift.

Wheeling Mayor Denny Magruder and his wife also stopped by with donations.

Cummings said he is also happy to work with a number of larger agencies, and grateful for the support of the Fitzsimmons Family Foundation, Belmont Savings Bank, WesBanco and the J.B. Chambers foundation.

In addition, “many unknown individuals” were involved with making donations that helped make the distribution possible.

“All together, we’re hopefully making a difference,” Cummings said. “My mantra is I’m the band director, but I don’t play all the band instruments.

“There are a lot of people behind me, and without them, this wouldn’t work.”

Cummings has been organizing the effort for 34 years.

“If somebody is in need, just come,” he said. “We’re all in need at times. It is nothing to be ashamed of. That is what Christmas is about — helping one another.

“We have unity in our community and are interested in helping one another. We want to help each other. It’s not really Christmas until you help somebody else,” Cummings added.