KNOXVILLE (WATE) – A new bench is on display at Northshore Elementary School to help encourage kids to make new friends.

The idea for the “buddy bench” was brought to the school by a family as a way to discourage bullying and was put up near the playground. Students who don’t have someone to play with can sit on the bench and hopefully other students will come introduce themselves.

“This is a great way for students to be able to meet new people, have new friends and build relationships,” said Principal Brandon Pratt.

All of the wood and paint was donated by people in the community.