Sober drivers strengthen community safety

The Sober Driver Committee has released its latest statistics, and the numbers reflect a program that continues to grow, strengthen, and save lives in the community.

In just two months, the Sober Driver Committee team brought 202 passengers home safely and returned 57 vehicles, demonstrating the success of the service ahead of this year’s holiday season.

For Tish Pungartnik, Chair of the Sober Driver Committee, these numbers are a reflection of Kahnawake’s collective commitment to safety.

“The program is going incredibly well. Those numbers speak volumes about our community’s mindset,” she said. “Calling for a ride is not just about personal safety; it is an act of prevention that protects everyone on the road and has become something the community can rely on.”

The program, which began with limited availability, has steadily grown into a dependable and well-coordinated service operated year-round. “In the beginning, it was a small pilot with limited nights and only a few drivers,” Pungartnik said. “Since then, it has grown into a structured, well-coordinated program with regular drivers, dispatch systems, and strong internal collaboration. It has become a dependable service rather than a season one.”

Much of that reliability comes from the commitment of the program’s regular drivers, Lori and Richard Delaronde, who have built a strong rapport and trust with passengers.

“Lori and Richard are the backbone of the service,” said Pungartnik. “They have been consistent since day one, showing up every weekend with patience, care, and professionalism. They make passengers feel comfortable, they know the community, and they treat every ride with respect. Their reliability is one of the reasons people trust the service so much.”

Bar manager of Moose Lodge 958, Mary Kate Downes, said the service fills a gap that once placed heavy responsibility on her staff. “Fifteen years ago, when I first started bartending, there were numerous taxis available. We don’t have that today,” she said.

“Before this service became available, my barmaids were driving four to five people home after an eight-hour shift just to ensure no one would drink and drive. This service is extremely important to me and my staff. Our members and guests use this service all the time and never have complaints,” Downes added.

Behind the scenes, the committee works continuously to improve operations. “There is a lot of planning and coordination that keeps the service running smoothly,” said Pungartnik. “The committee is proactive and always looking ahead, with several new ideas and initiatives in the works. We are constantly finding ways to make the program stronger and more efficient for the community.”

That planning is especially important as the holidays approach. The Sober Driver Service will be fully operational throughout the Christmas and New Year period, with high demand on the weekends receiving additional coverage.

“We will share the full schedule soon, but anyone can call the dispatch line for a safe ride home, no questions asked,” Pungartnik said.

As usage grows, so does community support. “People often share how grateful they are for the peace of mind the service gives them, others how the service helped them make better choices without fear of judgment.” Pungartnik said. “The best way to support the service is by using it. It supports the larger goal of building a stronger, safer Kahnawake through collective responsibility.”

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