Chumash Tribe partner on Build-a-Bike workshop for foster children

SANTA YNEZ, Calif. - The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians partnered with UA Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union 114 in Buellton to build bikes for foster children in Santa Barbara County.

The event was held on Nov. 2 and brought bicycles to children from the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Santa Barbara County.

The organizations split the costs of helmets and various bicycle and tricycle parts. Over 30 union apprentices, teachers and representatives went to work alongside Team Chumash to build 44 bikes and trikes in total.

The bikes were delivered to CASA of Santa Barbara using vehicles from Toyota of Santa Maria to be distributed to foster children for the holidays through a gift drive coordinated by CASA.

“With children in crisis, it's so important to try to give them something that helps to normalize their life, to give them a break from the sadness of being separated from family and friends,” said Kim Davis, Executive Director for CASA of Santa Barbara County.

UA Local 114 Business Manager Michael Lopez said that the Chumash Foundation has supported local union labor in the past. Lopez said that this, alongside their impact on the community, made the tribe a good fit for his organization's fundraising efforts this year.

According to the Chumash Tribe, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has donated more than $25 million to hundreds of groups, organizations and schools in the community and across the nation as part of the tribe’s long-standing tradition of giving.