DETROIT – Detroit’s latest round of snowfall has been more than just an inconvenience for many residents. It’s become a safety and mobility issue, especially for seniors and people with disabilities who can’t get outside to clear sidewalks and driveways.
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That’s where volunteers are stepping in.
Across the city, community members are mobilizing through the Serve Detroit Snow Removal Program, a city-supported initiative designed to provide free snow removal assistance to Detroit seniors and disabled residents who are unable to shovel on their own. The effort is part of a broader “neighbors helping neighbors” push during major weather events.
On Detroit’s west side, one group of volunteers bundled up, grabbed shovels, and got to work. One driveway at a time. Among them was Dwight Harris, volunteering with the community group Icon 10.
“You’ve got to have some arm power,” Harris said as the group worked through the heavy snow. “You’ve got to have some leg power, too. You’ve got to care too. I think caring is most important when it comes to community, especially today. And then getting the children involved in caring for the community is just as important.”
Between the sound of shovels scraping pavement and neighbors checking on one another, the scene reflected the goal of the program: quick help, delivered locally.
For Harris, the work is personal -- and necessary.
“A lot of times, they don’t have nobody,” he said. “They are living at home, by themselves. And they need help. And so, for somebody to come out and help them -- it’s a plus for them.”
The program has become a critical resource during heavy snowfalls, when snowbanks and blocked sidewalks can prevent residents from safely leaving home for essentials like medication, groceries, or medical appointments.
Detroit’s Volunteer Coordinator and Special Projects Manager, Tonie Stovall, said requests typically surge as soon as significant snowfall hits.
“The phone lines are ringing,” Stovall said. “Seniors, our seniors, are calling. And we are here to serve.”
Stovall said the city prepares for storms like this and that maintaining an active list of volunteers makes a major difference in responding quickly.
Asked if more volunteers are needed right now, Stovall didn’t hesitate.
“Oh, absolutely,” she said. “There is always a need for volunteers for individuals to get out and serve their community and just be a good neighbor.”
Residents who want to request snow removal assistance and those who want to volunteer must apply through the City of Detroit Department of Neighborhoods.
“Whenever they call, we are boots on the ground,” Harris said.
Click here to learn more about the Serve Detroit Snow Removal Program.
For volunteer opportunities through Serve Detroit, click here.