With Innisfailians and Central Albertans currently experiencing the coldest temperatures in North America, the town's Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) Snow Angel program is gearing up for a busy season.
The Snow Angels matches volunteers with those who are unable to shovel their sidewalks during winter. One criterion for the program is that the client must have mobility issues that would prevent safe shovelling, and there must not be anyone else in the household capable of the work.
“We are already actively seeking community volunteers,” said Eileen Reid, Innisfail FCSS volunteer coordinator. “Last year we had a gentleman who shovelled five walks who hurt himself, and now he can't this year. We are looking for creative ways to let the community know there is a need for shovellers and clients.”
She added there are presently 15 clients and four volunteer Snow Angels but there will be more once when more snow starts flying.
The coordinator added volunteers can be young or old and whole families can be part of the service, suggesting groups can adopt a client and take turns shovelling throughout the winter.
Reid said the Snow Angels program is more than just taking snow and ice away from sidewalks and driveways.
“It's all about paying it forward, reducing isolation and building healthy relationships with your neighbours and community,” said Reid.
Meanwhile, David Phillips, senior climatologist for Environment Canada, said this month's first blast of prairie winter is not what their longer-term forecasts are showing.
“Based on our weather modeling, we are seeing more of a normal winter pattern developing with average snowfall and temperatures,” said Phillips. “Last year the prairies experienced both extreme temperature and snowfall which was not broken by warm weather patterns. This year, we don't think Central Albertans will see that.”
The climatologist noted that while their models can predict general trends and patterns, Mother Nature still trumps their forecasts.
Volunteers and clients can contact Reid, or Tammy Oliver-McCurdie, FCSS support services manager, at the Innisfail Seniors Drop-in Centre Monday to Friday at 403-227-7744, or drop by during office hours.
