The Downtown Watch often receive feedback from people who work, visit and live downtown on how they have made a difference in their day. The Watch also work closely with the Winnipeg Police Service and Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service, providing a much-valued service in the downtown area.

From the City
Chief Keith McCaskill, Winnipeg Police Service
“The Downtown Watch is a perfect example of relationships. Its members provide an essential service that assists the police and businesses, collaborating for the safety of those working and visiting downtown.”

Chief Jim Brennan, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service
"Our partnership with the Downtown BIZ contributes to the City's goal of making the downtown safer and allows us to maximize the use of our emergency resources. The Outreach Patrol's commitment to the safety and wellness of individuals contributes to the betterment of our community, and their services are viewed as a valuable asset by our members."

Awards
The Mayor awarded the Downtown Watch ambassador William Kantimere with the Mayor’s BIZ Award in 2008. William logged over 950 hours as a volunteer in less than a year!

Stories from the Public
Don Jamison, visitor from Halifax
"In my many business travels across Canada, I have never encountered such a wonderful program (as the Downtown Watch). ...You have found exceptional people for your front lines."

Jenefer, downtown worker
“I wanted to let you know that your crew has been doing a wonderful job the last couple of months. They stop in every Friday to check in. They're always in a wonderful, cheerful mood, no matter what the temperature is outside. They chat for a few minutes, get an update on the area, then usually sing an out of tune Christmas Carol (my choice) and are on their way.

We have about 400 employees which work all sorts of hours and our location is on Main Street. We have had quite a few problems, in the past, with the street/homeless people but since Downtown Watch has been watching over us, I haven't been notified of any problems in over a month. So, I just wanted to thank you for making us feel much safer since you have taken us under your wing.”

Vicky, tourist from Toronto
“This is regarding the Downtown Watch. A gentleman named Guy - ambassador number 120 - rescued me. I was a lost tourist in the Forks area, staying at the York hotel -- I'm here working on a movie. I went to the Forks with a friend and they left me behind while I was shopping. I got completely turned around and didn't know how to get back to my hotel.

This gentleman walked me all the way back to my hotel and I have to tell you, what a service for a tourist or even someone who doesn't know Winnipeg at all. I have to thank you.

He was so pleasant and gave me some information about the city. I'm from Toronto and I wish Toronto had this kind of thing. These guys are great.”

Watch help turn-around truck trouble
Shirly M. ran into trouble as her truck stalled on the up-ramp of The Bay parkade on her way to work. Luckily four Watch ambassadors came to her rescue, attempting to boost the truck and eventually backing it down the ramp and pushing it into a parking stall. She said: “I appreciate so very much the help of your ambassadors. I cannot express to you how grateful I was for their help. The Downtown Winnipeg BIZ Watch is a great thing. I have seen the “men in red” in the area and always feel safe to see them around.”