Driving access to education through transport
Access to education should never be limited by lack of transport. We’re proud to enable schools and community organisations to provide safe, reliable transport where it’s needed most.
For tamariki in high-needs communities, lack of transport to school is often a reality. Whānau in these communities can often not afford transport costs, limiting tamariki’s ability to attend school events, participate in extracurricular activities, or even attend school itself. Traditional solutions, such as hiring buses, often proved unaffordable, leaving tamariki isolated within their immediate environments.
Vans Initiative
pledging 50 vans in ten years
pledging 50 vans in ten years
The Foundation has turned this challenge into an opportunity through our Vans Initiative, pledging 50 vans in ten years to schools and community organisations in low-decile South Auckland communities, where the need for accessible education is the highest.
The Vans Initiative Model
The Vans Initiative addresses accessibility gaps with a simple yet impactful solution, providing 36 vans (so far) to schools and service partners across South Auckland. These vehicles are more than just a mode of transport – they are a lifeline. Each van supports schools in ensuring children can attend field trips, sports events, and cultural activities without additional cost. In certain communities, vans even extend their utility into weekends, creating a broader sense of connection and inclusion.
To ensure effective use, schools are encouraged to manage their vans collaboratively within local clusters. This approach not only maximises the reach of each vehicle but also builds strong community partnerships. Schools like Glen Eden Primary have demonstrated exceptional leadership, using their fleet of three vans to transport entire classes, ensuring no child is left behind.
In addition to school allocations, five vans are used by service partners, such as Find Our Field of Dreams and the Pride Project. These organisations use the vehicles to address broader community needs, such as supporting truancy programmes or providing access to essential services.
Having pledged 50 vans in ten years, the Foundation prioritises schools and partners who demonstrate exceptional use and care. The Vans Initiative is guided by principles of fairness, ensuring the greatest impact for the communities the Foundation serves.
Driving meaningful impact with the Vans Initiative
The Vans Initiative has saved schools and families tens of thousands of dollars in bus hire costs, but its impact goes far beyond financial relief. Children who once missed out on events and activities are now experiencing the world beyond their neighbourhoods. They return with newfound confidence and a sense of belonging. Schools have noted improved attendance, participation, and morale as a direct result of having reliable transport.
LATEST NEWS
Stay informed. Access our latest initiatives, updates, and success stories as we work together to make a difference for tamariki and their communities.
