Senator Jim Tedisco joined the Safe Summer Program this summer as it handed out free bike helmets and ice cream to children in Saratoga County and Schenectady County. The distribution, part of the program’s 28th anniversary celebration, provided 5,000 helmets to kids across the two counties, pairing each helmet with a serving of ice cream to encourage participation.
The Safe Summer Program, now in its 28th year, focuses on promoting safe bicycling habits among youth. By offering helmets at no cost, the initiative removes a financial barrier that can prevent families from equipping their children with proper protection. The addition of ice cream serves as an immediate reward, aiming to make the safety message memorable during the peak biking season.
County officials reported that the combined effort reached a broad audience of children throughout the summer months of 2026. Organizers set up distribution sites at schools, community centers, and local events, ensuring easy access for families in both Saratoga and Schenectady. The program’s goal remains to increase helmet usage among young cyclists, thereby reducing the risk of head injuries as more children take advantage of the warm weather for riding.
The partnership with Senator Tedisco highlighted state-level support for local safety initiatives. As the program marks its 28th year, the continued distribution of 5,000 helmets underscores a sustained commitment to child safety on the road, reinforcing the message that biking can be both enjoyable and secure when proper gear is used.