On Saturday, July 25, the BCA held our first ever Community Paper Shredding Day Event. This community initiative was intended to help residents understand how to protect their personal information and reduce the risk of identity theft. The event was also designed to make residents aware of the various Frauds & Scams happening everyday in our communities.
The event was highly successful with over 90 people bringing boxes and bags of personal documents for shredding. Just over 2 tons of paper was shredded. Supporting our event, alongside the Ottawa Police was the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre. They were on-hand to talk to residents about how to recognize and prevent frauds & scams. Also in attendance were members of the Youth in Policing Initiative (YIPI). Many residents commented on the active engagement of the YIPI members and how this investment bodes well for future policing.
Constable Sarah Marcantonio and the YIPI Team were especially helpful with traffic control duties and assisting residents with the unloading of their boxes of paper. We are appreciative of their support.
The feedback from our residents at the event suggest this community awareness program can be a successful crime prevention strategy. The BCA is looking to repeat this event next year and perhaps extend an invitation to nearby communities.
Once again, the incredible support from the Ottawa Police, Canadian Anti Fraud Centre & our Volunteers made this a rewarding day.
