Rutland’s Blue Shirts program returns to support businesses and residents
Rutland Blue Shirts return to help businesses and vulnerable residents this summer. See how patrols, first aid and cleanup support can improve the neighborhood.
Rutland’s community patrol program, known as the Blue Shirts, is returning this summer to help businesses and support vulnerable residents in the Kelowna neighbourhood.
Starting July 13, three paid ambassadors will patrol parks, streets and commercial areas on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Their work will include checking on people in need, responding to community concerns and connecting individuals with services before problems grow.
The Rutland Business Association says the initiative is meant to address theft, litter, graffiti, loitering and other qualityoflife issues that have affected local businesses. The ambassadors will also carry first aid and naloxone kits, along with cleanup supplies. The program first ran as a pilot in 2024 but paused over the winter because of funding limits.