Merritt launches new snow clearing program for seniors

Residents of Merritt are required to clear snow off the sidewalk adjacent to their properties following a snow event.

“The city understands this presents challenges for elderly and disabled members of our community and is introducing a pilot Snow Clearing Program for the 2021-2022 winter season that will offer senior and disabled residents an alternative snow removal option,” reads a press release from the City.

“The City of Merritt and the Interior Community Services / Better at Home – Nicola Valley has teamed up to provide a pilot snow removal service to support seniors who are unable to clear their pathways, sidewalks, and driveways following snow events.”

Better at Home is a provincial program funded through the United Way British Columbia and provides subsidies to seniors for a variety of services. The Province of British Columbia has provided an additional grant to achieve social projects identified in Merritt’s Age-Friendly Action Plan.

Program Qualifications

To access support from the City of Merritt’s Pilot Snow Clearing Program in 2021-2022:

Senior applicants;

• A Merritt resident (reside in city limits)
• 65 years of age and older
• Proof of annual income may be required to receive subsidy
• Unable to shovel snow due to a physical disability or restriction
• Does not live with someone under 65 that would be able to provide snow removal

Disabled applicants;

• Merritt property owner
• Under 65 years of age
• Received the disabled homeowner grant in 2021
• Unable to shovel snow due to a physical disability or restriction

“If you or a loved one meet the qualifications and require support in clearing your path, sidewalk, or driveway following a snow event, please fill out and submit the Snow Clearing Program Application Form, and a representative from Better at Home or the City of Merritt will contact you.”

Once eligible applicants have signed up for service with the 2021-2022 Snow Clearing Program a service provider will attend the residence within 24 hours of accumulation of snow to clear off pathways, sidewalks, and driveways.