Community safety takes collaboration

Old Kildonan

Safety across our city is a shared priority, and in the Old Kildonan ward, it takes many forms. From community patrols and neighbourhood cleanups to safety forums, these initiatives bring residents together in meaningful and impactful ways.

Across neighbourhoods such as The Maples in the Elwick area, Castlebury Meadows, Amber Trails, and Aurora, residents have participated in safety walks. On March 25, a walk in Garden City highlighted the strength of community spirit. In collaboration with residents, Northwest Bear Clan, the Winnipeg Police Service, and students of Collège Garden City Collegiate, the event demonstrated how partnership contributes to neighbourhoods that are safe, connected, and welcoming.

Community patrols are about more than visibility. They create opportunities for neighbours to look out for one another and to speak up when something feels out of place. Throughout the evening, Winnipeg Police Service reinforced the message, “If you see something, say something,” underscoring how proactive awareness can make a meaningful difference.

Garden City resident Bryce Weedmark, who participated in the patrol, shared that “not only was the walk well-attended, but it also had a positive impact on the community. On the walk I saw friends of mine who live a couple of streets down and we stopped and talked to them. They were intrigued by the initiative and thought it was a good idea for the neighbourhood to have community presence.”

The involvement of youth added an important dimension to the event. Through the co-ordination of community service program teacher Heidi Reimer, several students from Collège Garden City Collegiate joined the walk, gaining first-hand experience in civic engagement and community leadership. Their participation reflects how empowering young people helps build safer and more resilient neighbourhoods.

Winnipeg Police chief Gene Bowers emphasized that strong communities are built when residents and law enforcement work together. The patrol was a reminder that safety is not the responsibility of any single group, but rather a collective effort. Actions such as participating in a community walk contribute to a more connected and secure environment.

Safety extends beyond patrols. Spring cleanup events play a vital role in community well-being by improving neighbourhood appearance, reducing hazards, and fostering civic pride. My office, together with the city’s Neighbourhood Action teams and partners such as Take Pride Winnipeg and Recycle Everywhere, support community-led cleanup efforts across the ward each year.

Cleanup kits are available and include garbage bags, recycling bags, gloves, and informational postcards with recycling tips. These resources help residents take action while learning more about waste reduction and responsible recycling.

Patrols, cleanups, or simple acts of goodwill – every effort we make contributes to a safer city. If you are interested in starting or joining a community patrol, or in supporting a neighbourhood cleanup, please reach out to me at devi@winnipeg.ca.