The B.C. government recently announced it is investing an additional $821,500 into the Everyone Rides Grades 4-5 program. As a result of the expansion, two new communities, Southeast Kootenays and Kamloops will be added in spring 2025, providing hands-on cycling education, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit stated this morning (April 7).

The program is already delivered in Metro Vancouver, Capital Regional District, Fraser Valley, Kelowna region, Cariboo region and the West Kootenay.

The Everyone Rides Grade 4-5 program was created by HUB Cycling, a non-profit organization with a history of breaking down barriers to cycling. With support from the province, the program encourages healthy habits, environmental consideration and safety through cycling education.

“Ensuring the safety of our children while promoting active transportation is a priority for our government,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “By expanding this program, we are giving more kids the skills they need to feel excited and confident about riding their bikes, while encouraging healthier and more sustainable commuting choices for families.”

Since its launch in 2019, the Everyone Rides Grades 4-5 program has introduced road safety, cycling skill development and active transportation infrastructure to more than 40,000 children in B.C. Now in its sixth year, the program continues to equip young riders with the knowledge and confidence they need to bike safely, and will support an estimated 9,000 children in spring 2025.

“HUB Cycling is committed to connecting communities through education,” said Lorraine Smith, manager of Everyone Rides Grade 4-5. “We believe cycling creates happier, healthier communities. Providing students with the opportunity to learn about active transportation and bike safety can play a big role in raising a generation of sustainable-transportation users.”

HUB Cycling photo

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