Police officers hit the slopes with new Canadians
Posted Jan 15, 2026 04:37:17 PM.
Last Updated Jan 16, 2026 12:11:38 PM.
Just before this latest winter storm hit, members of the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) took a group of newcomers on a very Canadian field trip.
For the second year in a row, WRPS partnered with Reception House for a day of tubing at the Chicopee Tube Park. Around 40 children and their families, who recently arrived from Bangladesh and Sudan, joined the officers.
WRPS, Director of Corporate Affairs, Cherri Greeno, told 570 NewsRadio that this initiative came about through a desire to do something different.
“This is something we thought of that might help introduce the children, not only to winter, but to our police officers to let them know that they don’t have to fear officers and they can always approach an officer when they need one.”
She said building relationships with new Canadians is something WRPS makes a concerted effort to do.
“Many of them have had negative experiences with police officers from where they come from. So, this is just a chance for us to meet them, introduce them to our members and have a little winter fun. A lot of them have never seen snow before so, this is a really fun experience for them.”
Greeno was quick to point out that they made sure everyone would be able to enjoy the time to its fullest extent.
“Before we come out here with them, we do a collection. Our members bring in winter clothing, boots, jackets, socks, snow pants for these children because they arrive here with no winter clothing at all, and I think the weather is a bit of a shock to them. Before we brought them out here, we made sure they were outfitted with warm and cozy clothes so they can enjoy the day.”
Greeno also mentioned that Reception House accepts clothing donations throughout the year because new people arrive at different times. She says you can reach out to Reception House to find out how to help.
