MADD teams up with Blood Tribe police

By Alexandra Noad - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on July 16, 2024.

Alexandra Noad –

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Lethbridge chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Canada has partnered with the Blood Tribe Police to help bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving.

According to the MADD Canada website they are a charitable, grassroots organization that is committed to stopping impaired driing and supporting victims of this violent crime.

Anita Huchala, local president and victim support volunteer, says MADD has been well received by the Blood Tribe community.

“We’re very well received. They think us for being there. They think it’s for bringing awareness and supporting those that have lost those to impared driving. So I think it’s kind of a win win for us all the way around and to be well received in a community is important for us.”

Huchala mentioned how the Elders on the reserve are grateful for the work MADD does, as the Elders also strongly discourage impaired driving.

“The Elders also advise that zero tolerance and they don’t want their people doing drugs and alcohol. That’s not the way their traditions are and stuff. So, the more we can be down there and show that positive encouragement in the community, I think the better for that community,” said Huchala.

One moment which stands out to Huchala is around Christmas time she was helping at a check stop on the reserve.

She was offering red ribbons for people to show their support to never drive impaired. The woman shared she had lost three family members to impaired driving and Huchala offered her condolences as well as support through MADD’s support groups. While the woman was doing Ok, she was grateful there were people bringing awareness to the dangers of impaired driving.

“She said ‘thank you so much for that. I think I’m doing really well, but it’s just nice to know that you are definitely out there supporting others and doing something that’s worth while,” said Huchala.

MADD Canada is always looking for volunteers and they can be reached through their website along with their Facebook and Instagram pages.

“We try to accommodate everybody with their skill set and the time that they have available,” said Huchala.