COQUITLAM, B.C., Oct. 19, 2022 – Snow can be fun for some and a challenge for others. The City of Coquitlam is actively recruiting volunteer Snow Angels, neighbours who can lend a helping hand this winter by assisting those who are unable to clear their City sidewalks.
Become a Snow Angel
Winter can be difficult and isolating time for seniors and those with mobility or accessibility concerns. Coquitlam residents are encouraged to consider helping their neighbours as a volunteer Snow Angel. Volunteers are needed throughout Coquitlam, especially in higher elevation neighbourhoods including Laurentian Belaire, Maillardville and Westwood Plateau.
Snow Angel volunteers are matched with neighbours who are within walking distance, to assist in clearing snow from the City adjacent sidewalk within 24 hours of snowfall. When it snows, you go!
This volunteer opportunity is open to Coquitlam residents. Snow Angels must be 16 or older, or with adult-accompanied supervision. Training, shovels, reflective vests, scarves and toques are provided.
Why Volunteer?
- Keep your neighbours and neighbourhood safe
- Create new family memories by working together
- Fulfill community service hours for graduation
- Meet your neighbours and make new neighbourhood friends
For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, visit www.coquitlam.ca/snowangels.
Good Neighbours Make Great Neighbourhoods
Being a good neighbour takes on a new meaning and a new sense of urgency during the winter months. There are many actions you can take to ensure your neighbours stay safe.
- Plan to help, don’t wait for them to ask: Consider your neighbours who might need a helping hand with shoveling and other tasks like mail pick-up, garbage set-out or grocery shopping. It feels good to help those in need.
- Keep your neighbourhood safe for everyone: Slippery sidewalks are hazardous for everyone – particularly for seniors, those with mobility challenges and parents with strollers. If you notice a snow-covered sidewalk, help to clear it.
How to Get Connected with a Snow Angel
This volunteer-supported service is available to Coquitlam residents who are 65 years of age or older or have mobility challenges, and are unable to clear the snow from their adjacent City sidewalk. Volunteers are not able to shovel snow from private driveways and walkways.
Information about the Snow Angels program and requirements for volunteers and recipients can be found at www.coquitlam.ca/snowangels. The program can also be reached by phone at 604-927-6076 or communityservices@coquitlam.ca.
Get Winter Wise
Coquitlam’s Winter Wise program kicks into gear each winter to minimize the impact of snow, ice, storms and colder temperatures. While the City works to keep roads safe and reduce service disruptions, residents are encouraged to do their part by clearing sidewalks and catch basins, parking off-street to allow for plowing, and being prepared for extended power failures or impassable roads.
More information about City services and resident responsibilities during the winter months can be found at www.coquitlam.ca/winterwise.
Media contact:
Debbie Clavelle
Community Recreation Manager
604-927-6966
dclavelle@coquitlam.ca