Snow is on the way & neighbors need help

The Pittsburgh Snow Angels program matches neighbors to shovel the walks of those who are unable to do it on their own.

A shoveled sidewalk can be the difference between whether or not someone has access to essential services such as home-delivered meals and medications during the winter months.

How you can help

The City of Pittsburgh’s Office of Community Affairs is now accepting applications for the 2020-2021 Snow Angels Program. This program pairs older adult residents and residents with disabilities with nearby volunteer Snow Angels to help them shovel and salt their sidewalk and property throughout the winter. Along with fostering stronger community relationships and relieving some of the stress that comes from snowfall or a freeze, Snow Angels make our sidewalks safer for those who are outside during the winter weather – like postal carriers, firefighters, police officers , and other neighbors. 

To request help from a Snow Angel, neighbors must: 

• Be at least 60 years old or have a physical disability 
• Live within City of Pittsburgh limits 
• Lack other resources (financial or family/friends nearby) to assist with snow removal 

Volunteers and neighbors in need can register for the program online at https://pittsburghpa.gov/snowangels/ or by calling the City’s 311 Response Center. The 2019-2020 program saw over 276 neighbors matched with volunteers to help them manage the hardships of winter. 

“We’re pleased that the Snow Angels Program has grown every year, but there are always more vulnerable residents who need help than volunteers,” said Mayor William Peduto. “I encourage Pittsburgh residents to sign up as a Snow Angel to help a neighbor in their community.” 

The Office of Community Affairs will offer incentives throughout the winter season for individuals to volunteer on their social media accounts on Facebook (facebook.com/ocapgh), Twitter (@ocapgh) and NextDoor. Community-based organizations, companies or employers are encouraged to assist with volunteer recruitment in their communities by having volunteers mention the organization’s name when they register. The organization that recruits the most volunteers will win the 2020-2021 Golden Shovel award and other incentives, including gift cards from local businesses and free passes to Schenley Park Ice Rink, that will be announced later. 

For more information or to find out more about how to help with volunteer recruitment, visit pittsburghpa.gov/snowangels, contact the Snow Angels Program at snowangels@pittsburghpa.gov or call 412-255-0846.