PALS celebrates 25 years with new Kids on the Go Bus
PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) is riding into its next era with a brand-new bus to help kids reach their full potential through educational experiences.
The PALS Kids on the Go bus has been a staple of PALS since its founding 25 years ago. The bus is provided by J.D. Irving, Limited to participating PALS schools free of charge to transport school children to and from co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.
The new 32 passenger bus will replace the existing 24 passenger bus that has been in operation since 2010 and will help accommodate even more students. Over the years, the Kids on the Go bus has enabled kids to participate in co-curricular trips, school sports, experiential work placements, NBSR train rides, PALS in the Park and other enrichment activities.
In the last year alone, Kids on the Go served 21 local schools in Saint John, making over 600 bus trips. The new bus will ensure this important initiative will continue to connect local youth with transformational experiences for many years to come.
“The Kids on the Go bus is more than just a means of transportation for local students. It’s a door to new opportunities, opening young minds to the multitude of experiences outside their school neighbourhoods,” said Deborah Fisher, PALS Coordinator. "It takes many partners to make this happen year after year, and this program would not be possible without our valued collaboration with the Anglophone South School District."
The new Kids on the Go bus is rolling into service as PALS celebrates 25 years of helping kids be the best they can be. Co-founded in 2000 by James K. Irving and the Anglophone South School District, PALS fosters partnerships between businesses, community groups, educators and volunteers to create programs that help each child reach their full potential.
“My father always recognized the need to do more to support young people in our community. It was a deep personal interest that grew over the years,” says Jim Irving, co-CEO of J.D. Irving, Limited. “We are proud of PALS and all that it continues to achieve to create meaningful change. This milestone is a testament to the power of partnerships and the shared belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed."
