Smiles, cheers, and holiday excitement filled the gym at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (BGCSTL) Mathews-Dickey Club as youth and families gathered for an unforgettable Christmas surprise, thanks to Raising Cane’s.
For the second year in a row, Raising Cane’s donated 100 brand-new red bicycles and helmets, giving Club members the gift of fun, freedom, and safe outdoor play—just in time for the holidays. 
The excitement reached another level when award-winning artist Nelly and his wife, Ashanti, made a surprise appearance, sending the crowd into cheers. For the second consecutive year, the pair helped turn the bike giveaway into a moment families won’t forget. Nelly and Ashanti took photos with kids, parents, and staff, bringing energy, joy, and star power to the celebration.
“We love having Nelly and Ashanti here at the Club,” said Brandon Williams, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis. “It’s wonderful to have Nelly here with our youth again. Our youth and parents are excited to meet him. Ashanti is a Boys & Girls Clubs Hall of Famer, and she’s truly at home here in St. Louis and at the Club. This gift brings tremendous joy and puts big smiles on the faces of our members.”
Each Club member went home with a bike, helmet, and Raising Cane’s holiday goodies—including Santa hats, cookies, lemonade, and water—making the night one filled with laughter, gratitude, and holiday cheer.
Thanks to Raising Cane’s, Nelly and Ashanti our kids will always remember this Christmas celebration.
####
The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis (BGCSTL) is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. BGCSTL provides after-school, teen, sports, and summer programs to youth across the Bi-State Region while also providing a safe place for them to learn and grow. The Clubs serve youth across the region at six locations, including (Adams Park Club, Bethalto Club, Hazelwood Elementary School Club, Herbert Hoover Club, Mathews-Dickey Club, and the Teen Center of Excellence). We also operate Mentor St. Louis and the St. Louis Internship Program.
