With up to 16 centimetres of snow falling in some areas on Friday, and up to another 10 coming over night, the City of Vancouver is calling for volunteers to help clear the sidewalks.
Businesses and residents are required by bylaw to have their walkways cleared by 10 a.m. the day after a snowfall.
But for some seniors and people with mobility issues, getting that done can be a daunting task.
That’s where a generous donation of time through the city’s Snow Angel program can make all the difference.
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The program works by matching volunteers with residents who aren’t able to get their sidewalks cleared, said City of Vancouver director of streets Taryn Scollard.
“We encourage everybody if you’re able to volunteer to be a Snow Angel, either formally or informally, but specifically if you are in the south-east part of the city, that’s where volunteers are most needed.”
Scollard said by pitching in, volunteers can do more than just help people in need avoid a potential $250 fine.
“It also helps people with disabilities and the elderly get around easier if they aren’t able to drive and they do need to go somewhere, or they just want some fresh air,” she said.
“I definitely saw a person in a walker struggling to get around a little bit.”
Anyone interested in volunteering as a snow angel can find more information on the City of Vancouver’s website.