A group that provides support to young people in places where alcohol is available is celebrating a highly effective trial run in Windsor.
The Red Frogs Support Network, a group of volunteers that specializes in providing safe spaces and support to those who may find trouble in certain situations, completed its trial run at the end of September, according to the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA).
During the weekends of September 2, 16, and 30, volunteers from Red Frogs set up a space on Ouellette Avenue at Maiden Lane, to coincide with periods when downtown nightlife would be the busiest.
"The Red Frogs initiative has demonstrated that a compassionate, proactive approach to harm reduction is not only possible but incredibly impactful," said Debi Croucher, DWBIA Executive Director. "The DWBIA is immensely proud to have been part of this project, which has undoubtedly made a positive difference in our downtown core."
The group handed out a total of 1,480 nutritious snacks to anyone wanting them, plus 135 litres of water, throughout the trial run. Volunteers were also available to provide counselling and support to anyone in a harmful or stressful situation, so local police and EMS did not typically need to be called.
"The overwhelming success of our trial in the downtown core is a powerful reminder that harm reduction and support can coexist seamlessly with lively, energetic nightlife," said Nelly Latchman of Red Frogs. "We are absolutely thrilled to have been able to offer our services and look forward to potential future endeavours."
The support network is set up in places where people of college or university age gather to enjoy nightlife and provide refreshments to help mitigate the effects of substance consumption.
Future collaborations between Red Frogs and the DWBIA are almost certain and the group has indicated it is ready for dialogue with those involved to make them happen.
Complete information on Red Frogs can be found on the group's official website.
