Christmas came early this year for the students at Ferebee-Hope Community School who received a very special gift from Washington Wizards forward Caron Butler. On Thursday, every student at the local elementary school received a brand new bicycle and helmet courtesy of the two-time NBA All-Star.

Butler set-up an annual bike give-away in his hometown of Racine, WI in 2005 after learning that his cousin’s bike had been stolen. After sponsoring “Butler’s Bike Brigade” for the last three years, Butler decided to bring the wonderful tradition to his second home of Washington D.C.

"This idea originally started in Racine, WI a couple of years ago when one of my little cousins, Richard Butler, had his bike stolen and I went out and purchased 600 bikes for the whole community."

Now in its second year, “Butler’s Bike Gift” continues to bring smiles to underprivileged children in the Washington D.C. area.

“It’s something that we’ve been doing for the last couple of years and it is really fun and heart warming. Being in this position to giveback to the community really means a lot to me.”

“It’s always fun to see the kids’ faces light up when you’re giving away bicycles or coats or toys,” added Butler.

Washington Wizards senior director of community relations Sashia Jones explained why this event, which marked Day 10 of the Washington Wizards’ annual 12 Days of Holiday Cheer, is so special.

“This is one of my favorite events because the kids are so excited about getting these brand new bikes from Caron,” said Washington Wizards senior director of community relations Sashia Jones. “He really loves doing this and you know that the kids, the principal and the school really appreciate it.”

The Wizards will continue to celebrate their 12 Days of Holiday cheer on Friday with their annual Toyland Drive. Each fan that donates a children's toy will receive a ticket voucher good for a future Wizards game. All donations will benefit the Salvation Army. The 12 Days of Holiday Cheer will conclude on Saturday, December 20 with Gilbert’s Christmas Dream. Guard Gilbert Arenas will host a fun-filled day at ESPN Zone for local homeless, orphan and foster care children.