Operation Red Nose extended to Yorkton area

For the first time, safe ride service Operation Red Nose has been expanded to Yorkton this holiday season.

Supported by SGI, the campaign is part of a nationwide initiative. The service will be available in five Saskatchewan communities including Regina, Saskatoon, The Battlefords, Prince Albert and now Yorkton, from Nov. 24 to Dec. 31.

Available on select dates throughout the holiday season, teams of three volunteers will pick up people who feel they aren’t able to drive, and drive them to the destination of their choice in their own vehicle. One volunteer drives the client’s vehicle, a second navigates and the third follows in an escort vehicle to pick up the two volunteers after the client has been dropped off.

The service is free, but donations are accepted and go toward local youth and amateur sports organizations in the participating community.

Since Operation Red Nose was created in 1984, 2.1 million rides have been provided by 1.2 million volunteers in more than 100 communities. Last year, campaigns across Canada raised more than $1.5 million and more than 55,000 volunteers are preparing for the upcoming season.

“Our incredible volunteers, thousands of responsible motorists, hardworking local host organizations and our numerous partners all come together in a collective effort to help improve road safety across Canada,” said Operation Red Nose’s founding president Jean-Marie De Koninck media release. “This makes us very proud.”

To check out scheduling and hours visit operationrednose.com or download the mobile app.

To arrange a safe ride home, call Prince Albert at 306-763-6673; The Battlefords at 306-480-9876; Saskatoon at 639-480-6673; Regina at 306-949-2400; or Yorkton at 306-783-3041.