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BGC Central Vancouver Island daycare clients have a pair of reliable new 24-seat buses to ride on to a variety of programs. (Ian Holmes/NanamioNewsNOW)
new wheels

‘It will make a huge difference:’ new buses announced for popular Nanaimo charity

May 5, 2021 | 12:26 PM

NANAIMO — A pair of new 24-passenger buses are now on the road for an organization helping upwards of 1,200 Nanaimo area children annually.

BGC Central Vancouver Island (formally known as the Boys and Girls Club of Central Vancouver Island) unveiled the new buses during an outdoor gathering at its Fifth St. location on Tuesday, May 4. They will replace the older, falling apart buses currently being used.

Executive director Karen Love told NanaimoNewsNOW the vehicles will make it much easier to attend larger gatherings.

“Throughout the summer all kids in all of our programs will actually get the opportunity to get out and enjoy the lovely island that we live on.”

She said it’s critical to have reliable buses as attendance and demand for their programs increases.

“It’s always a juggling act. We’re just about to open up some new locations so obviously having some new vehicles will help us with that as well.”

The gas powered buses valued at $98,000 each are funded through provincial gaming revenue.

The vehicles will include the organization’s new BGC Central Vancouver Island logo in line with the charity’s national decision to rebrand in order to be more inclusive.

BGC Central Vancouver Island has 11 Nanaimo area locations providing programs to children up to 18-years-old.

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