Snow Angels a Godsend in High Country

When the snow flies, a few good citizens swoop in to save the day for those unable to shovel it themselves.

The Snow Angels Program in Black Diamond and Turner Valley offers relief to homeowners and renters unable to clear their sidewalks, and both Towns are looking for a few good men and women to help out.

The program is a joint initiative between Black Diamond and Turner Valley Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) that enlists volunteers to help citizens who need a hand clearing their sidewalks after snow falls.

Snow Angel and Turner Valley Coun. Barry Crane said he was taking on the task before the program was implemented in his community.

“Shoveling sidewalks is one of the easiest things you can do and has such an impact on people who are unable to get out physically and do that type of exercise,” he said. “A Snow Angel really comes in and saves the day. It really makes a difference.”

In addition to having his name on the list for when someone needs snow removed after a snowfall, Crane said he keeps a shovel in the back of his truck and is always on the lookout for someone who needs a hand.

“Usually I hit a few spots where I know the person is in need and if I see any extras I will just keep going down the sidewalk,” he said. “It only takes five minutes to do someone’s sidewalk. It’s being a part of the community and building that sense of community.”

Crane enlists the help of his two young children, teaching them the importance of doing a good dead every day. The rewards make it worth Crane’s while.

“I especially like it when you get the thank you,” he said. “They usually come out with a big thank you, maybe even a cookie. If I’ve got the kids I am almost guaranteed to get a cookie.”

Monique LeBlanc, Turner Valley’s manager of community services and business development, said in a small community it’s common for neighbours and friends to help each other out.

“There are some really good Samaritans out there that have helped out rather than going through a more formal process of registering,” she said.

Yet, even in small towns there are people who don’t have anyone to turn to when it’s time to clear their walks and it’s those who FCSS is hoping to reach, said LeBlanc.

“Most people are really hesitant,” she said. “They don’t want to bother anyone. When somebody needs a little bit of a hand we certainly want to be able to try to help them as best as possible.”

For those unable to get help on their own due to mobility limitations, health problems or an injury, or they can’t afford to pay someone to remove their snow, the Snow Angels Program matches them up with someone who can lend a hand.

“On average every year we have about 10 people who are requesting Snow Angels,” she said, adding the program was able to meet that need in its first year last year. “It really shows the spirit of giving and sharing, which these areas are so well known for.”

According to both Black Diamond and Turner Valley’s snow removal bylaw, homeowners and renters have 24 hours to clear their sidewalks. Those not abiding by the bylaw will be given a warning and the opportunity to enlist the Snow Angel Program, or could face a fine ranging from $100 to $200, said LeBlanc.

Volunteers aren’t always easy to come by, therefore FCSS is encouraging service clubs and organized groups to join the initiative to lend their assistance so they have more volunteers to choose from when there is a major snowfall, LeBlanc said.

“We’d like to reach out to the churches, youth groups and of course the general public,” she said. “We want to rely on the kindness and generosity of the community members to help one another out.”

Black Diamond Snow Angel Claude Gagnon said when the community put a request out for Snow Angels last year, he was on board.

“A lady just happened to be down the road and I just walk over,” he said. “I have her again this year.”

Gagnon said he’s glad to lend a hand.

“There is a need in the community,” he said. “I’m just helping out.”

Those interested in becoming a Snow Angel can call the Black Diamond municipal office at 403-933-4348 or the office in Turner Valley at 403-933-4944.