Angel Program

After every snowfall, City of Nelson crews work hard to keep our streets and sidewalks clear and our community moving. But under Traffic Bylaw 3156, residents are responsible for clearing the sidewalks in front of their homes—a task that can be difficult for seniors and people with mobility challenges.

The City of Nelson’s Angel Program helps bridge that gap by connecting volunteers with neighbours who could use an extra hand. It’s a simple act of support that not only clears a sidewalk, but can also brighten someone’s day.

Register for Angel Services

The City of Nelson receives requests from seniors and residents with mobility challenges who are unable to clear their public sidewalks. When a request comes in, we match the resident with an Angel volunteer who can help remove snow and debris. The program runs each year from October to April, with service depending on weather conditions.

If you are a Nelson resident who needs support from an Angel, please email angelprogram@nelson.ca with your contact details and home address. We’ll match you with the closest available volunteer, who will provide snow removal at no cost.

In order to access the Angel Program, you must reside within Nelson City Limits; and you must be a senior or a resident with limited mobility and unable to clear snow from the adjacent public sidewalk to your home.

If you fit the criteria and wish to access an Angel, please fill out the application form HERE.

Volunteer to be an Angel

Volunteer Angels can be individuals, families, groups—anyone who wishes to volunteer to help make our City's sidewalks safer for those in need.

In order to become an Angel, you must have the ability to physically clear the debris, you must provide your own shovel and adequate clothing for all types of winter weather conditions; and you must commit to a minimum of one home each season.

To register, please fill out the application found HERE. Once we receive your information you will be connected with a resident in need of an Angel.

Youth Angels

If you are a youth (under 19) wanting to gain volunteer experience, please have your parent or guardian fill out the application form HERE. Once we receive your information, we will connect you to the closest resident in need.

No Match? What to do Next

All eligible Angel applicants will be placed on a list of addresses to be considered. While we will do our best to connect you with a volunteer Angel, the City of Nelson cannot predict the magnitude of snowfalls, the availability of volunteers, or the number of eligible applicants.

Please plan ahead and ensure that you have made arrangements to clear the snow off your sidewalk if there is no Angel match. This can include reaching out to friends, family, and neighbours, or hiring a private snow removal company.

Please review Traffic Bylaw NO.3156 for the clearing of snow on your residential property.

The City of Nelson is collecting your personal information in accordance with Section 26 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The City of Nelson collects your information for the purposes of administering the City of Nelson programs and services, including permits and licensing services. If you have any questions, please contact the Privacy Head at 310 Ward Street, Nelson, BC V1L 4P1 or FOI@nelson.ca or 250-352-8234.