Operation Nez Rouge gives nearly 6,000 rides in Quebec on Saturday

Volunteers with Operation Nez Rouge had a busy Saturday night, providing nearly 6,000 drives across the province.

• Operation Nez Rouge underway for 31st consecutive season
• Nez Rouge busier than ever, founder says

The service helps people who may have had a bit too much to drinkby offering them a ride home from holiday parties.

Quebec City was the busiest area, with 527 rides. Next was Outaouais (230), Montreal (213)and Laval and the Laurentians (203).

In total, there were 5,951 rides in Quebec, making it one of the busiest nights of the year.

Though its a national program, its used muchmorein Quebec, where the non-profit program originated, than in other parts of the country.

Nearly 3,750 people volunteer with Operation Nez Rouge in Quebec. In total, 51,000 people volunteer across Canada.

Taking advantage of the program is free, but donations are encouraged. Each year, the service receives over $1.5 million in donations Canada-wide.

Organizers stress anyone can call Nez Rouge, even if they have no cash to donate.

The program runsuntil Dec. 31.

In Quebec, Nez Rouge can be reached at 1-866-DESJARDINS (1-866-337-5273).