Community Initiatives.
NST has a desire to give back to its local community.
The charities NST has traditionally supported are dedicated to helping vulnerable children and youth in the Lower Mainland by funding essential needs, such as meal programs, clothing, transportation, school supplies and access to extracurricular activities.
BGC South Coast
When KidSafe wound down operations in 2024 after nearly 30 years of service, BGC (formerly Boys & Girls Clubs) stepped forward to work directly with the Vancouver School Board to ensure the continuation of kid-focused nutrition and support programs. Through this partnership, vulnerable children continue to receive nutritious meals and safe, supportive care during school breaks. NST is proud to support BGC’s efforts to maintain these essential services for families in our community.
https://www.bgcbc.ca/
PALS Autism Society
PALS Autism Society operates a specialized elementary and secondary school in British Columbia dedicated to supporting children and youth with autism. Through individualized learning, life-skills development, and therapeutic supports, PALS helps students reach their full potential in a structured and supportive environment. NST is pleased to support PALS, and we are especially proud that our partner Karen Carteri serves on the organization’s board. https://palsautismschool.ca/
Adopt-A-School
NST has championed the Vancouver Sun’s Adopt-A-School program for many years, supporting the work led by David Brankin Elementary in Surrey, B.C., to assist at-risk students. Funds raised through the program help provide meals, clothing, transportation, school supplies, and access to extracurricular activities. Partner Murray A. Clemens, K.C., FCIArb, has had the opportunity to visit schools and meet the kids involved in the program, which allowed us to see how the kids flourish.
We are proud to support students and families by helping meet essential needs, including basic clothing and footwear, grocery gift cards for families facing food insecurity, hygiene supplies, and school materials and technology. Our contributions also help fund breakfast programs and respond to emergent needs identified by school administration, ensuring students have the stability and resources they need to learn and thrive.
http://vansunkidsfund.ca/
Sarah McLachlan School of Music
The Sarah McLachlan School of Music provides high-quality music education and mentorship to children and youth who face financial or social barriers to accessing the arts. Through after-school programs and summer camps in the Lower Mainland, the school supports hundreds of students each year by offering free instruments, lessons, and creative opportunities in a safe and inclusive environment. NST is proud to support an organization that fosters confidence, creativity, and belonging through music.
https://www.sarahschoolofmusic.com
Take a Hike Foundation
Take a Hike Foundation operates 15 programs across the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, Interior, and Vancouver Island, supporting approximately 300 youth. The program primarily serves teens facing mental health challenges or trauma who may be at risk of disengaging from school. Through full-time, integrated mental-health support and nature-based learning, Take a Hike helps students build resilience, strengthen connections, and work toward graduation. NST supports healthy breakfasts, lunches and snacks in Burnaby classrooms.
https://takeahikefoundation.org/