THUNDER BAY -- Rides were down but donations were up this year for Operation Red Nose.
The volunteer holiday service through St. John's Ambulance gave 633 rides this year and while the total isn't in yet, executive director Diana Sustawenko said donations look to be around $28,000. She thinks there were less rides this year because the service was offered over 12 days, not 13 like the previous year. She credits all of the 175 volunteers who works hard to give people a safe ride home.
"Who were absolutely extraordinary. They drove over 10,888 km to get these people home safely throughout the holiday season," she said.
And of course, those who took advantage of the service gave more.
"People were very generous this year so we truly thank them for their support," Sustawenko said.
She's also thankful that there were no fatalities on the road this year in the city.
"It's really been a banner year for the city of Thunder Bay and I really believe Operation Red Nose played a huge part in making that happen."
All proceeds stay in Thunder Bay to help fund St. John's youth programs. Preparations for next year's campaign begin in July.
Driverseat Thunder Bay says their rides were up nearly 200 per cent compared to last year.
