SUNDRE – Residents who for whatever reason are unable to shovel their sidewalks this winter are encouraged to drop by the Sundre Greenwood Neighbourhood Place Society’s office to pick up a sign or poster they can place on their property.
“We’re revamping the Snow Angels program a little bit,” said Renate de Bruijn, GNP community outreach coordinator.
In previous years, the municipality would place signs throughout the town to raise awareness within the community and encourage those who are able to clear the snow, to grab their shovels and assist those who are not.
As per the municipality’s bylaws, residents must clear their sidewalks within 48 hours of a snowfall. However, some are physically unable to do so; and not exclusively seniors but also for example, people with mobility issues or others who might be recovering from an operation.
Regardless of the reason a person is unable to do it, Snow Angels who step up to lend a hand not only keep sidewalks safer but also help to ensure their neighbours don’t potentially run afoul with the town’s bylaws.
But in the past, a sidewalk left covered in snow was essentially the only visual indication Snow Angels had that someone needed a hand.
“(Now,) we have signs that people can pick up and put in their lawn if they need help, as well as a poster for behind the windows if they prefer that over a sign in their lawn,” said de Bruijn.
That approach makes much more clear which residents require assistance than placing signs throughout the town.
