Operation Red Nose returns for another Christmas.
The service kicks off next Friday, and offers free rides home to those who’ve had a drink too many during the holidays.
Led by St. John Ambulance, Executive Director Diana Sustawenko says the local branch is the only in Ontario to offer the program again this year, due in part to a successful last season.
“We gave 754 safe rides home to people,” she says. “In the vehicles, there could have been up to seven people, so numerous people were driven home safely, and we have over 250 volunteers that helped us make that service such a success.”
Sustawenko says she doesn’t expect Driver’s Seat, a new designated driver service in Thunder Bay, will slow down the St. John Ambulance service.
“Operation Red Nose is only running for a very short time over the holiday season,” says Sustawenko. “We’re not a year-long service, it’s not a set service fee, so it is a donation.”
While rides are free, the service accepts donations. Last year raised more than $26,000. All proceeds stay in Thunder Bay.
(Photo: Caryn Ceolin)
