COLD LAKE - Once again gracing the wintry scene of Cold Lake is the much-anticipated Cold Lake and District FCSS Snow Angel Program. This initiative, supported by the backing of the New Horizons for Seniors federal grant, encourages residents to support people in need throughout the winter months.
The Snow Angel Program took flight 12 years ago, and ever since, Cold Lake FCSS has been facilitating the program.
The Snow Angel Program is designed to assist residents of the City of Cold Lake who need help removing snow from their walkways and sidewalks. Individuals who need assistance just need a sign.
“Residents in need of snow removal assistance have a Snow Angel Program sign placed on their front yards. The program is available to residents of the City of Cold Lake. Residents living in other Lakeland communities should contact their community’s FCSS office for program availability,” according to information from the City of Cold Lake.
Kim Schmidtz, Cold Lake’s FCSS manager, spoke about the significance of the Snow Angel Program and attributes its success to the volunteers who breathe life into its mission.
“The Snow Angel program has been a community staple over the years, and we are always trying to raise awareness of the program. Although the signs make it out each winter for people that need help, it comes down to the amazing volunteers in our community who make the program a success,” explained Schmidtz.
The City of Cold Lake emphasizes that the program is not exclusive to seniors. Any resident facing challenges with snow removal can apply for volunteer assistance.
To access the support, residents can fill out a Snow Angel application form at the Cold Lake and District FCSS office located at 5200 54 Street.
Volunteers
“Volunteering for the Snow Angel Program is a straightforward process. Volunteers do not need to register, they can contact Cold Lake and District FCSS to receive a map and a list of addresses where their assistance is most needed,” according to the City of Cold Lake.
The City of Cold Lake highlighted the advantages of participating in the Snow Angel Program, emphasizing particularly attractive incentives for youth.
“Volunteering as a Snow Angel is a great way for youth to earn community service hours, for families to model neighbourliness to their children, and for teams, clubs, and businesses to get involved with the community.”
Recognition and appreciation
Residents receiving help from Snow Angels are encouraged to nominate volunteers for a certificate of appreciation and a small thank-you gift from Cold Lake and District FCSS. Nomination forms are available on the official Cold Lake website (www.coldlake.com), at the FCSS office, or by calling 780-594-4495.
