Kamloops Snow Angels (Image credit: CFJC)
SNOW ANGELS NEEDED

Kamloops Snow Angels call for volunteers as more seniors, residents require assistance

Nov 21, 2022 | 4:10 PM

KAMLOOPS — For the last 10 years, the Kamloops Snow Angels program has been helping local seniors and people with mobility issues dig out of their homes when the snow hits.

This year, more seniors have signed up.

“So far this winter, I have 115 seniors wanting the program and the need is ever increasing. As word gets out there and the more snow that falls, the more seniors decide that they could really benefit from this program,” says Snow Angels Coordinator Anita Jacobsen.

Compared to other years, Jacobsen says the number of volunteer Snow Angels has decreased significantly.

“Last year, I had 68 volunteers and this year I only have about 40. I’ve lost key volunteers that covered a lot of seniors and word seems to be getting out. I’m a lot busier now than I was at this time last year. There’s more seniors signing up for the program, so I really need volunteers.”

A busy season may be on the horizon for the volunteers and Jacobsen notes this service is vital in the city.

“This is an unbelievable service for them. They’re trapped in their homes if they can’t get out and that’s an awful feeling. The other thing is there’s a fear factor because the last thing a senior wants to do is to slip and fall because a fall could be life-changing,” she adds.

If more volunteers don’t sign up, she says it may be tricky to access the service.

With snow expected Monday night (Nov. 21) and Tuesday, Kamloopsians will need their sidewalks and driveway shoveled.

“This program isn’t just for seniors it’s also for people with mobility issues and it encompasses a little bit of everything, but yeah, with the snowfall [Tuesday] my phone will be ringing off the hook.”

People interested in volunteering as a Snow Angel can sign up at Volunteer Kamloops.