Operation Red Nose reports good numbers so far

On one night alone 38 rides were provided. New Year’s Eve is usually when Operation Red Nose has the most calls from clients requesting the service.

“Hopefully, we will have lots and lots of calls on New Year’s Eve,” Schell said.

The program operated nine nights last year and will run only eight nights this year due to how Christmas landed on the calendar.

Through the program, one volunteer will drive the owner of the vehicle home in the owner’s vehicle, while another volunteer will follow in a separate vehicle. Volunteers work in teams of two or three people. Clients need to have their own vehicle with them when they call.

Schell is also a driver.

“It’s quite a lot of fun to drive. You get to meet some interesting people,” he said.

Volunteer numbers have been strong this year also, Schell noted, adding that a total of 30 individuals signed on to help the service that’s available throughout the Battlefords.

Schell said he is grateful for the volunteers and vehicle dealerhships in North Battleford that have donated vehicles to use for the Red Nose program for most nights.

The funds from the program will benefit KidSport Battlefords, a non-profit organization to help children in need be able to access sports.

“The generosity of the business community has been phenomenal,” Schell who is also co-chair of KidSport Battlefords, said. “There is already close to $10,000 raised from the business community alone in sponsorship from financial donations. That’s not including the donations raised from clients.”

Schell said the aim is for the program to raise about $15,000 in total this year.

While the service is free for clients needing a ride home, most will usually donate about $20.

Schell said he appreciates how the Operation Red Nose program helps keep Battlefords roads safe over the holidays.

“I know with the Christmas season, over the holidays people like to party a little bit. That’s never a bad thing. To keep intoxicated or impaired drivers off the roads is very important,” he said. “We know that getting behind the wheel when you are impaired is never a good thing. So Operation Red Nose is a great alternative to that.”

To use Operation Red Nose which will run again on Dec. 29 and Dec. 31 between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. drivers in the Battlefords can call 306-480-9876 or 306-480-9879.

angela.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW

by Angela Brown

Operation Red Nose reports good numbers so far

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