The good times rolled out in Baton Rouge during a stop for Raising Cane’s 6th annual Holiday Bike Giveaway.
A hundred Louisiana kids ranging from kindergarteners to tweens got an early Christmas gift on wheels thanks to the beloved restaurant franchise. It was part of a nearly thirty city stop of goodwill provided by IRL Santa Clause, Todd Graves.
(Courtesy Raising Cane’s)
The founder and owner of Raising Cane’s joined Gayle Benson, owner of the New Orleans Saints and Governor of the New Orleans Pelicans, during her annual “Month of Giving” initiative on Dec. 17. The day that launched a thousand smiles took place at the YMCA of the Capital Area – A.C. Lewis YMCA location in the southern city.
(Courtesy Raising Cane’s)
Witnessing these two powerhouse figures uniting to bring joy to the town was uplifting and proof that there is good in this world. The leading entrepreneurs may not of worn capes, but in the grand words of Maya Angelou, they proved her statement to be truth: “I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.”
(Courtesy Raising Cane’s)
Holiday cheer embraced the audience who gathered in the YMCA gymnasium for the bonanza of gracious giving and gratitude for those who dream big enough to change the world for the better.
Benson’s ongoing commitment to youth development and community enrichment made for the presentation of a charitable donation to the YMCA of the Capital Area for a newly renovated locker room. This locker room will support over 500 young athletes who participate in various sports programs at the A.C. Lewis YMCA
“The YMCA plays a vital role in shaping the lives of young people in the Baton Rouge community and beyond,” Benson stated during the press conference. “I am honored to continue my Month of Giving here, alongside Raising Cane’s, to ensure that children have the resources, encouragement, and joy they deserve this holiday season.”
Adding to the dazzling day of philanthropy, the second component of the bike giveaway was inspired by the joy Graves remembers from receiving a bike for Christmas a kid. It was a core memory that he has shared over the years with kids who receive custom-made wheels thanks to an ongoing tradition by Raising Cane’s. This year alone, Cane’s is donating 4,500 bikes and helmets to nearly 30 youth organizations across the country.
(Courtesy Sean Gardner/Getty Images for Raising Cane’s )
On the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, these two mega heroes handed out more than a donation. They gave to the people of Baton Rouge H-O-P-E wrapped up in a big and beautiful red bow. Seeing the kids laughing in delight as Graves pushed them on their new bikes while local residents thanked a gracious Benton for her efforts in the middle of the gym floor was a sight that should be more common. Just a moment of sharing and happiness creating a common ground for all Americans to unite is an image that will forever be a pleasant memory in this reporter’s mind.
Acts of kindness spread harmony. A day like this will forever change the lives of the children involved as well as inspire others to give the gift of giving.
(Courtesy Sean Gardner/Getty Images for Raising Cane’s )
“Mrs. Benson and I think the same way. We’ve been extraordinarily successful. We’ve had great success. We’ve worked very hard that success, but we feel very grateful for that. And what you can share for people is ultimately our purpose,” Graves reflected.
The spirit of the season he went on to say would touch the kids and in turn hopefully they too will pay it forward some day in not so distant future holiday when they grow up.
The Month of Giving, established by Mrs. Gayle Benson, is a yearly initiative that highlights her commitment to strengthening communities across Louisiana and the Gulf South. Through charitable contributions and hands-on engagement, the program supports organizations that provide vital services to families and children.
Benson’s visit to the YMCA of the Capital Area reflects her ongoing dedication to advancing youth development, promoting education, and encouraging wellness, while reinforcing the importance of investing in the next generation.
The YMCA of the Capital Area supports eight different “Y” locations across the Greater Baton Rouge area which represents approximately 15,708 individuals. Last year, 2,289 children participated in YMCA Youth Sports, including 428 young athletes who participated in sports at the A. C. Lewis YMCA. Founded in 1917, the YMCA of the Capital Area has been woven into the fabric of this community for more than 100 years. As YMCAs nationwide celebrate 175 years of the movement in 2026, they are proud to continue that legacy of strengthening families and neighborhoods.
Happy Holidays!!!
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