First State Skate Supply gives out 17 free boards to local kids

With help from State Farm Insurance agent Eric Blondin, First State Skate Supply co-owners James West and Joe Moore gave away 17 free, fully stocked skateboards to local kids June 21 on International Go Skateboarding Day.

West said he and friends have always given kids hand-me-down skateboards and parts, but it had always been his dream to give kids brand-new skateboards.

“Joe and I thought this year was the year we would try it. We are so thankful that Mr. Blondin wanted to be a part of this,” said West in an email June 28.

Blondin said he was humbled and honored to help West and Moore reach their goals. It’s always awesome to give back to the local community, he said.

After beginning the day at the Epworth Skatepark outside Rehoboth, the crew from First State Skate went to Burton Village, a community near Rehoboth.

West said he lived in Burton Village after graduating from Cape Henlopen High School. He taught and skated with kids from Burton Village and West Rehoboth, he said.

“There’s nothing like being able to give back to a place you once lived. The goal is to give back to all the places I lived throughout Delaware over the years,” said West.

For more information on First State Skate Supply, go to firststateskatesupply.com or email firststateskatesupply@yahoo.com.