Ebony Lewis was excited as she watched her siblings ride their new bikes at Goodwill Industries.

"I can't wait for my turn," said the 9-year-old, whose bike seat was being adjusted. "I like riding bikes because when you're on them, you can feel the wind and it's like you're flying on a bike."

In a few minutes, her seat was adjusted and her helmet secured. It was then her turn to test her bike on the course that was set up.

"This is so much fun," she told her mother, Joann Thomas, when she was done. She then turned to one of the Goodwill clients and said, "Thank you."

Ebony and her siblings were among nearly 200 area children ages 2 to 13 who received bikes Dec. 11 during the third annual Santa Wheels Bike Rodeo.

Last month, Goodwill clients began refurbishing donated bikes while learning job skills that will help them earn employment, said Meredith Stiff, executive director for Goodwill Works Foundation.

"What makes this particular program special is that it accomplishes two goals: it teaches skills so people can go to work and it blesses children with a bike for Christmas," she said. "With our partners, we are able to touch many people's lives with this program."

Stephen Smith, a Goodwill client, said the event means a lot to him.

"This has been an incredible experience," he said. "This is what Christmas is about, giving. To see these smiles and how much these kids are enjoying the bikes, it makes you feel really good that you were able to do that for them. I really thank God for the opportunity to be a part of this."

Ms. Thomas said watching her children enjoy their bikes was emotional. "I'm trying not to cry but it's such a joyful moment. Our prayers have been answered," she said. "They wanted bikes for Christmas, but I couldn't afford it. This is a blessing. God answered our prayers and I'm so grateful."

The partners for Santa Wheels are Master Pontiac Buick GMC, Andy Jordan's Bicycle Warehouse, Goodwill Industries, Safe Kids East Central and CW Augusta.