Winter weather is beginning to arrive, and while snow can make for a scenic vista, for people with limited mobility, particularly senior citizens, it can be a real hardship.

Snow-covered driveways, sidewalks and walkways make getting in and out of the house difficult, particularly when there is a major storm. In some communities, there is an ad hoc system of people helping neighbors in need, but in the Tuesday, Dec. 5., edition of the Butler Eagle, we learned about the Cranberry Township Snow Angels program, which takes things a step further.

First started during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Snow Angel program connects Cranberry Township residents who need help with snow removal with people who are willing and able to help all season. The program is particularly aimed at senior citizens and people with limited mobility.

And even though we haven’t seen much snow yet, Tina Fedko, communications director for Cranberry Township, said people have already started signing up to get help.

That means more volunteers are needed.

“You have to be a Cranberry resident to receive assistance, but you don't have to live in Cranberry to be a volunteer,” Fedko said. “The matches that we made between volunteers and residents, they are forming lifelong friendships with neighbors who they might not have met.”

Unlike more informal arrangements, the Snow Angels program matches volunteers with residents, and each group regularly visits the people they’re matched with to make sure their sidewalks and driveways remain clear and accessible.

Volunteers have to be 15 or older, and those under 18 have to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Fedko said the township encourages groups to work together, and that the volunteer base includes athletic teams, church groups, scout troops and others.

One volunteer, Christopher Minton of Cranberry Township, started two years ago and has been encouraging others to get involved as well.

“The kids learned what it means to be a leader in the community and help out your fellow brethren,” Minton said. “It's a great community-building program; you get to know your neighbors.”

You can sign up to volunteer online at cranberrytownship.org/snowangels.

— JK