Bicycles repaired and assembled by youth at the Cattaraugus Residential Center, to be donated to families for Christmas, are pictured with two staff members who assisted: Myron Wilson, left, and Bruce Tanner.

Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Gladys Carrión, Esq., is pleased to announce that 12 youth from the Cattaraugus Residential Center repaired and assembled six bicycles this fall that will be delivered tomorrow (Dec. 23) to less fortunate families for Christmas, as part of a program with the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Department that fosters cooperation, volunteerism and caring for others.

The Santa’s Sheriff’s Program began in 2004 and has been growing steadily.  Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) youth and staff have participated in this community-wide initiative since its inception, working on various vocational training projects and assisting in the delivery of gifts to needy families identified by the county.

“Our youth learn industry skills and teamwork as they focus on giving to others,” said Dana Whitcomb, director of the Cattaraugus Residential Center.  “OCFS is proud to participate in this holiday program again this year, benefiting others and putting to practice skills that the kids have learned at our facility as part of their curriculum.”

The Cattaraugus Residential Center is located in Limestone, New York, and cares for male youth, ages 14 to 18, who have been placed in the custody of OCFS by Family Courts. 

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