One of the most exciting developments for the Brighter Beginnings Bus program in 2025 is a new partnership with the Orica Impact Fund.
Orica’s sponsorship of one of our school bus runs will help expand the reach of the Brighter Beginnings Bus Program, and ensure its sustainability over the next 12 months.
Orica Kooragang Island Manufacturing Centre Manager Viney Kumar said:
“Orica is delighted to partner with the Brighter Beginnings Bus Program, which is a unique and impactful initiative making a meaningful difference in our community.”
“Access to education is not only integral to a child’s wellbeing but will also support them to participate more fully in society and experience greater opportunity.”
The Brighter Beginnings Bus Program continues to rely on the dedication of volunteers, donors, and community partners to provide essential services to the Newcastle community. With the support of organisations like Orica, the program can continue to provide crucial resources to children and families, fostering a brighter future for all involved.
The Brighter Beginnings Bus Program, now in its fourth year of operation, is celebrating its continued success in providing essential support to at-risk children across Newcastle. With the aim of improving school attendance, academic achievements, and overall wellbeing, the program has 41, 500 school drop offs to date. This program consistently and steadily building education routines, helping at-risk children and their families overcome significant barriers to education such as hardship, trauma, and social isolation. 2025 will see this deepen and strengthen yet again for community families.
The program operates across four local schools, offering reliable transportation to and from school, nutritious breakfasts, and consistent wellbeing checks for each child. The wellbeing checks are conducted by trained staff members who provide additional emotional support and guidance to students and their families, ensuring their needs are met both inside and outside the classroom.
"We’re not just getting kids to school – we’re helping to break down the barriers that prevent them from achieving their potential, supporting and triaging families every day at their front door" said Emma Griffin, LIVEfree Project’s Community Engagement Officer.
"Thanks to our incredible team of volunteers, our kids receive the support they need to succeed. Each day is an opportunity for growth and change, and this program continues to have a positive impact on the lives of these children and their families."
Since the Brighter Beginnings Bus Program began, attendance rates among participants have shown a marked improvement, with more children attending school regularly, leading to better academic and social engagement. 2024 saw over 51 children recognised for their outstanding educational progress and achievements, receiving awards that celebrate academic growth and excellence, leadership potential and civic and community engagement, which highlights the students' dedication and personal growth. Local community will prosper in the overflow of these achievements.
For more information about the Brighter Beginnings Bus Program, or to find out how you can get involved as a volunteer or donor, please contact Rachel at info@livefreeproject.org.au.
About the Brighter Beginnings Bus Program:
The Brighter Beginnings Bus Program provides daily transportation, nutritious breakfasts, and wellbeing checks for at-risk children in Newcastle. It supports children and families facing adversity, including domestic violence, hardship, and social isolation. With the goal of improving school attendance and overall wellbeing, the program has been an integral part of the community for four years and continues to rely on a network of volunteers, schools, and community partners.
About the Orica Impact Fund:
The Orica Impact Fund supports initiatives that create meaningful, positive change within local communities. Through partnerships with programs that focus on education, environment, health, and wellbeing, Orica is committed to making a lasting difference by empowering communities and fostering opportunities for growth and resilience.
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