Project Red Ribbon launches in Waterloo Region

Thousands of red ribbons will be distributed throughout Waterloo Region and across Canada in the next couple months.

It’s part of Mother’s Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada’s annual project to spread awareness about impaired driving during the holidays.

On Thursday afternoon, an announcement was made at Waterloo Region Police headquarters about the red ribbon launch for the region. The community is being asked to display red ribbons visibly in support of ending impaired driving and the impacts it has.

From November to January, people across the country will be showing their support for Project Red Ribbon.

Regional Chair Karen Redman was there for the launch this week.

Redman said the campaign reminds residents the impact impaired driving has on communities like Waterloo Region.

“There is still too many people getting on the road under influence of either alcohol or drugs and I think MADD Waterloo Region reminds us, at home in our community that we can make a difference and avoid the kind of trauma and loss of life that happens,” said Redman.

Just this year alone, Waterloo Regional Police have charged over 300 people with impaired driving offences – which they say has been a significant increase from previous years.

Mark Crowell, Chief of Waterloo Region Police said on average 175 people are injured everyday in Canada from impaired driving.

“Annually 65,000 Canadians are impacted by impaired drivers. We know in this community sadly some people aren’t getting the message,” said Crowell. “Year to date, 2023, WRPS has charged over 300 individuals with over 800 impaired driving offences.”

Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic was at the launch of the campaign for the region, as he said he hopes to see many red ribbons in Waterloo Region in the months ahead.

“Millions of red ribbons will be distributed as part of MADD Canada’s longest running public awareness program,” said Vrbanovic.

“As a community, we need to come together to stop individuals from driving when impaired. Be this when you see a friend leaving a party or when you’re at an event this holiday season. Anytime one of us speaks up we could be saving a life,” added Vrbanovic.

The community can show support for Project Red Ribbon by picking up a ribbon from the local MADD Canada chapter.

Red ribbons and red ribbon car decals will be given out for residents to display on cars, keychains and anywhere that’s visible.

For more information about project red ribbon visit the MADD Canada website.