New Year's Eve is the last evening this season for Operation Red Nose, and according to spokesperson Maritte Kirouac they have enough volunteers.

Last year Operation Red Nose had 26 drivers on New Year's Eve, and had only one phone line. Kirouac says, “Last year our drivers gave 49 rides and were exhausted and really stretched out. We also missed a few phone calls that we couldn't keep up with. This year we have three phone lines, so we are expecting call numbers to increase.”

Kirouac says their goal this year was to have 60 volunteer drivers for New Year's Eve, and they have met that goal. “Because of the time of year, we have about four calls a day from people saying they can't volunteer because their schedule has changed, but then we have somebody else call and say their schedule has changed and now they can drive, so we are on a treadmill of keeping our volunteers at 60. It's back and forth but it looks good.”

On the busiest night of the first year of Operation Red Nose, Kirouac says they gave 39 rides in 2013, and in 2014 on New Year's Eve they gave 49 rides. Kirouac says, “It's fun to see how the numbers are changing through the years, and we look forward to breaking records this year.”

“Winnipeg is doing a lot of advertising for volunteers, and I'm so proud that in our area we have enough. I think we are the volunteer capital in our region, and the people here are a real part of the history of Operation Red Nose in our area.”

As usual Kirouac says they will be having lots of fun, food and many safe rides will be provided. 

If you live near the Steinbach/La Broquerie area and need a safe ride home for you and your vehicle this New Year's Eve, call Operation Red Nose at 204-424-9555. Volunteers are still being accepted, to volunteer as a driver call 204-371-1018.