By Taylor Chartrand

Snow angels looking to clear the way in Medicine Hat.

Nov 21, 2018 | 4:05 PM

Medicine Hat, AB – Although there isn’t a ton of snow on the ground as you’re reading this article, that doesn’t mean it’s not coming.

When that time arrives, Hatters will be pulling out their shovels and for some, that can be a daunting task.

One local initiative is attempting to alleviate some of that burden and that program is the snow angels.

With specifics on the angels, here’s Acting Superintendent of Community Support Services, Shantel Ottenbreit. 

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“What we aim to do is really just encourage Hatters to get out there and be mindful of their neighbors who might need some assistance in shoveling and might not be able to do it for themselves.”

Ottenbreit furthered her comments by saying this isn’t a community matching program. 

It will take a bit of common sense and courtesy when it comes to looking out for those in need.

“For some people, it’s really difficult to be able to get out. We found that moms home alone with their babies, those dealing with chronic health issues and the elderly really struggle with these tasks. Honestly, it can be really helpful for anyone.”

And if you notice a snow angel helping through your neighborhood, they can be recognized by filling out a form on the city’s website.

“The goal is that we would be able to send you a card with a little token of thanks, which is usually has a little gift-card inside. By doing that, we’re really hoping that we built a bit more community spirit and it’s also a good way to get to know your neighbors.”

New to the snow angels program this year is what is known as classroom angels.

Ottenbreit says this involves encouraging students and teachers to help out within their neighborhood.

“In such a way, we’re hoping that we encourage the littler ones to be able to be more community focused and encourage them to be great volunteers within our community. We know that a lot of them already do it and so, this is just our way to say thank-you.”

Unfortunately, if people decide not to shovel their sidewalks, there are by-laws that could fine you accordingly. 

Ottenbreit says her hopes are these situations are avoided at all cost.

“It’s just encouraging again that old mentality of getting to know your neighbors and get out there to help one another. In a way, I think sometime’s we’ve lost that because we’ve become so busy and so focused on what we have to get done. This program is just helping people be mindful of what they can do.”