Sometimes getting pulled over by the cops can be sweet.
The summerlong Rainy River District Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Positive Ticket Program has moved into its last month of handing out “tickets” that cite young citizens for doing good—whether they’re wearing bicycle helmets, volunteering, helping neighbours, showing kindness, or making other positive choices throughout the summer.
“As police officers, we often encounter people during difficult moments, but the Positive Ticket Campaign allows us to connect with community members, specifically youth, in a different way by recognizing and rewarding positive actions,” Const. Kristina Bombay, co-organizer of the campaign, said in a press release.
“By acknowledging good choices, acts of kindness, and responsible behaviour, we encourage the values that help build safer, stronger communities. A simple positive interaction can leave a lasting impression, strengthen trust between police and the public, and remind people, especially youth, that their positive actions are seen and appreciated. Chi-Miigwetch to the Rainy River District Community Policing Committee for partnering up again for this very important initiative.”
The tickets can be redeemed for a free ice cream treat at participating businesses across the district.
The annual campaign runs from mid-June until the end of August. It provides OPP officers with 200 Positive Tickets that they can hand out to recognize youth who are demonstrating safe, responsible and community-minded behaviour. Local partners of the program include Northwoods Gallery & Gifts, the Sorting Gap Marina, Norlund Oil and Andrew’s Snack Shack.
The Positive Ticket Program has been running in the Rainy River District for several years, with 2026 marking the second year of the partnership between the Rainy River District OPP and the Rainy River District Community Policing Committee.
“The goal of the program is to strengthen positive relationships between youth and police by recognizing good choices rather than focusing solely on enforcement,” the OPP said in the release. “Every positive interaction helps build trust, encourages responsible behaviour, and highlights the many young people who make a difference in their communities every day.”
“The Rainy River District OPP and the Rainy River District Community Policing Committee are proud to recognize the many young people across the district who make positive choices every day. Through the continued support of the Community Policing Committee and participating local businesses, the Positive Ticket Program celebrates these everyday acts of kindness, responsibility, and community spirit while helping build stronger connections between youth, police, and the communities they serve.”
