Snow clearing support program for Waterloo residents

Applications for the City of Waterloo’s assisted snow clearing program will open September 3. The program is a free snow removal service for eligible residents unable to clear their sidewalks and windrows left by the plow during the winter months. With additional funding from the Government of Canada’s Age Well at Home Initiative, qualifying residents may also benefit from volunteer provided support to remove snow from their private property, including walkways and driveways.

The program supports Waterloo residents who are 65 years and older, as well as persons with physical disabilities, who also meet an income requirement. Eligible residents are asked to apply by September 30 for service for the upcoming snow season. Services begin each year after the first snowfall of the season, on or after November 1, and continue through to April 30, 2025.

Those who received service in the 2023-24 winter season do not need to reapply. Program staff will contact previous recipients to confirm eligibility and service for the upcoming season.

Residents who do not meet the criteria for free service may still qualify for a fee-for-service option where the City matches eligible residents with a self-employed snow worker. Limited spaces are available in each program, and only one application is required.

“The City’s assisted snow-clearing programs will address common winter sidewalk difficulties and support accessibility concerns for residential private properties,” said Tiffany Smith, Manager, Community Programs. “Often the people most in need of clear sidewalks for winter mobility are also those who may experience challenges keeping a sidewalk clear. We are prioritizing mobility needs and community supports with our program.”

Updated program details and eligibility are available on the City’s website, where applications are accepted, www.waterloo.ca/snow-assist. Contact customer service staff at 519-886-1177 ext. 27248 with questions about the program or for assistance filling out the online form.

Funding for the various programs is provided by Government of Canada’s Age Well at Home Initiative, Ontario Health and City of Waterloo.

Investing in accessibility and inclusion to enhance belonging is one of the objectives under the City of Waterloo’s Reconciliation, Equity, Accessibility, Diversity and Inclusion strategic priority. Under this priority, the City has been working to prioritize the needs of people with disabilities, older adults, people living on low incomes and others with inclusive and responsive programs, services, policies and funding.

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Media contact:

Stacey Abbott
Manager, Corporate Communications
Stacey.Abbott@waterloo.ca