Safe Walk Program May End Due To Lack Of Funding

It seems like such a good idea – get older teens to escort young kids from their after school activities to ensure their safety.

So why is it likely the Safe Walk Program in Regent Park won’t be happening this fall?

The reason, as it so often is with anything surrounding our schools, is money. There simply isn’t enough to keep the volunteer program going. Its main source of funding has run out and organizers need $50,000 to renew it.

“If the money doesn’t come the program is cancelled,” worries Jeff Kugler, a former principal in Regent Park.

The idea first blossomed five years ago, when parents in the high crime rate neighbourhood became concerned that their kids were coming home late after school. With drug dealers and other odd characters hanging around, no one felt comfortable.

But moms and dads, many of whom can’t afford day care, didn’t want to deprive their youngsters of the chance to take part in fun activities.

The answer – the Safe Walk Program, which just three months ago won a Mayor’s Community Safety Award. At least 300 children take part in the walks.

“It’s important because you never know what’s going to happen on the streets,” indicates 10-year-old Chantal.

But one councillor  insists all hope is not lost. Councillor Pam McConnell vows to find the money somewhere. And she claims it will happen before Labour Day, prior to the start of this year’s semester.  

But there’s not a lot of time left. If the funding for the Safe Walk Program doesn’t come through in time, organizers say they’ll have no choice but to cancel it all.

“I think I would just walk by myself,” muses eight-year-old Keira about what she’ll do if it ends. Asked if that would make her feel safe, she simply shakes her head in a resounding “No”.

And there are hundreds of other kids who feel the same way.   

In case the money doesn’t come through or your area doesn’t have a similar program, here’s what to tell your young kids about how to stay safe when they walk home from school.

*It’s a good idea to map out the route with your child before the year or the activity starts. Making them familiar with their surroundings can help you point out where the hazards might be.

*Never run across the street. Walking prevents tripping and any danger of falling and being hit.

*Never cross in the middle of the street. Always go near a light, a crosswalk or a stop sign. If possible, wait for a crossing guard.

*But remember to tell them that crosswalks aren’t foolproof and remind them that drivers don’t always stop, even when the lights are flashing and pedestrians have the right of way.

*Warn them of the hazards of walking between or near parked cars. Drivers who aren’t expecting little kids as they pull out may not see them.

*Wear reflective clothing at night or in the early morning hours, especially as the days get shorter.

*It’s never too soon to remind them about the ‘don’t talk to strangers’ rule. If they get in trouble, seek out a well lit area, like a store or a trusted neighbour’s home.

*If there’s no one around, teach them to yell, make noise, squirm, offer resistance and attract as much attention as possible.

*Remember the ‘code word’ plan. This involves arranging a special secret word only you and your kids know. If someone comes to pick them up and they can’t repeat the secret password, your kids should run away and call for help.

*Never sew your child’s name on his or her backpack or clothing. A predator can use the information to pretend they know them.

*Make sure your kids know the basics – their name and yours, their address and their phone number. And be sure they know how to call 911 in an emergency. It’s helpful to write the information down and have them carry it with them.