The Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center (GBHWC), in collaboration with TOHGE, Inc., is excited to announce the return of the Safe Drive Home program this holiday season, a vital service aimed at providing free rides home for residents. This initiative, now in its fourth year, delivers an essential safety net during the festive period.
Starting from December 16 through January 2, 2025, the program will operate daily from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. Up to five individuals can request a ride, underlining the importance of making safe choices during holiday celebrations. Residents are encouraged to call (671) 787-9276 or (671) 686-9276 (TOHGE Warmline) to access the service.
GBHWC Director Carissa Pangelinan shared, ‘The holidays are a time to celebrate, but they’re also a time to make smart decisions. If you have been drinking, let us help you get home safely. Last year, 107 people trusted us to get them home to their loved ones, and we are ready to do the same for you this year.’
‘This program is about looking out for one another,’ said Brian Hahn, executive director of TOHGE, Inc. ‘Our peers understand how important it is to support one another, especially during the holidays. If you need a safe ride, don’t hesitate to call. We want everyone to have a safe and happy holiday season.’
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol-related crashes remain a significant concern. In 2021, 13,384 people lost their lives in alcohol-impaired driving incidents. Moreover, local data from the Guam Police Department revealed 265 DUI arrests and 14 fatal crashes in 2022, with six being alcohol-related.
Utilizing two 7-passenger minivans, trained peers from TOHGE, Inc. will provide safe rides during the program. The Safe Streets Act of 2018 prohibits driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, emphasizing the dangers of impaired driving.
GBHWC representatives reminded residents, ‘Do your part to keep Guam safe this holiday season. Use Safe Drive Home if you need a ride and share this information with friends and family.’
For additional information about the program, residents can contact the GBHWC Main Office at (671) 647-1901 or the GBHWC Prevention and Training Branch via email at staff@peaceguam.org.
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