Photo by HeartlandMom courtesy of Pixabay
The Snow Buddy volunteer program matches volunteers with those who need help shoveling snow in Alexandria.
With even more possible snow heading to Alexandria this weekend, it's more important than ever to be sure neighbors and loved ones are safe, especially those who are unable to shovel their steps, sidewalks and driveways.
Alexandria's Snow Buddy Program connects volunteers with residents who are unable to clear snow on their own, including low-income (below $50,000) residents, homebound or disabled neighbors, 60 years and older.
Snow buddies provide a critical service to these residents who may need to leave their homes for medical and other essential appointments or rely on healthcare workers for deliveries. The Snow Buddy volunteers also help eligible property owners who are required to clear snow within 1 to 3 days after a heavy storm to avoid fines.
Snow Buddy Volunteers are on call starting the day after the first snowfall of the season through the spring of the next year. Volunteers are generally matched with residents within reasonable walking distance and expected to supply their snow shovels and brooms. Salt will be provided.
If you’re interested in serving your neighbors, register here.
If you’d like to request assistance because you live in the City of Alexandria, are below $50K annual household income, and are not able to shovel snow, you can register here.
The program is designed to accommodate volunteers and respect local residents. Residents are asked not to request any other services from the volunteer, not to pay the volunteer and not to ask them to come into the home. They are trained volunteers matched with a household within walking distance.
Volunteers are instructed to:
Call the residents before a snowfall to introduce yourself
Never enter the resident’s home
Never accept money
Report back to Volunteer Alexandria after shoveling
Serve the same resident the entire winter season
For questions, please call (703) 836-2176. For general information about Alexandria Snow procedures, visit https://www.alexandriava.gov/Snow.
What do residents say?
“I’m 92, and I was so scared about how I would get out. You are like angels.”
“I called to tell you what a great job your volunteer did shoveling the snow from my house. He came on Monday and promised to come back on Tuesday. He kept his promise and came back on Tuesday and helped some more. I just wanted to call and let you know how grateful I am to your volunteer and your Snow Buddy Program.”
One lady was very appreciative and said, "I am so glad that there are people still kind enough to do this for people like me!"
The Snow Buddy Program is partially funded by the Alexandria Rotary Club, the Burke & Herbert Foundation and Alexandria Women for Good, in cooperation with the City of Alexandria.
