Hark the herald angels shovel

By Sean Feagan, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Shoveling snow is not just an annoyance – for people with disabilities or health issues, it can be extremely difficult and even dangerous.

“We know that Strathmore can often get hit hard by snow and storms,” said Strathmore Mayor Pat Fule. “So, snow removal often is a big challenge for people and people are sometimes unable to shovel their sidewalks.”

Fortunately, there is a group of volunteers in town that on many days and nights each winter, don their jackets and mitts, grab a shovel and visit their neighbours to help clear the snow. They know where to go because of the town’s Snow Angel program. 

Under the program, anyone needing help with snow removal puts a “Snow Angel” sign from the town on their door, from November until mid-April. Placement of a snow angel sign is not a guarantee that snow will be removed, but often, people are willing to help.

The program started in 2017 when 24 residents requested signs. Currently, there are 48 people in town who have registered for the program and have signs.

There are many benefits of being a neighbourhood snow angel, including knowing and helping neighbours, getting fresh air and exercise, receiving a volunteer timesheet for employee evaluations or school credit, or even getting nominated for a certificate of appreciation signed by the mayor, and a chance to win prizes. 

Anyone unable to shovel their sidewalk looking to enroll in the program can call Strathmore FCSS at 403-934-9090.