Snow Angels earn their wings
Today marks the launch of this year’s Snow Angels campaign. The City is encouraging everyone to be a good neighbour by helping others in need and instilling community pride.
“Snow Angels are just regular citizens who want to help out older adults and people with mobility or health issues by keeping their sidewalks clear,” says Chris Thomson-Hunter, program coordinator. “Helping out, and recognizing those who have helped, is what this campaign is all about.”
It’s important to keep walks clear of snow and ice so that everyone can move safely around their neighbourhoods during the winter. The Streets Bylaw requires sidewalks adjacent to properties be cleared of snow and ice down to pavement within 24 hours after a snowfall stops. This work can be very challenging – even dangerous – for older adults and others with limited mobility.
“Taking a few extra minutes after a snowfall to help a neighbour isn’t too taxing for many of us,” says Thomson-Hunter, “but it means so much to those with physical limitations and others who need to access those walks. Snow Angels directly contribute to the well-being and safety of others and to strong, caring communities – communities people want to live in and be proud of.”
Last winter, Calgarians showed their caring spirit in record numbers in response to snow falls. Over the 2013/14 winter season, there was a 137 per cent increase in people calling The City to have their Snow Angel officially recognized (up 721 nominations from 526 nominations the previous year).
If someone has cleared your sidewalk, you can contact The City to have them officially recognized as a Snow Angel. You can nominate your Snow Angel online, by calling 311, or mailing your nomination to: Snow Angels - #184, P.O. Box 2100, St M, Calgary, AB T2P 2M5. All nominated Snow Angels are officially recognized by Mayor Nenshi and entered into a prize draw.
The Snow Angels campaign has recognized 7,650 Snow Angels since its inception in 2004.
For more information visit Calgary.ca/snowangel.
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