City to begin accepting Snow Buddies applications Oct. 7

The City of Cedar Rapids will begin accepting need-based applications for its Snow Buddies sidewalk snow removal program on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 8 a.m.

The Snow Buddies program pairs residents in need of assistance with volunteers who help clear sidewalks of snow and ice accumulations in the winter. The program is meant to assist residents who are not physically able to remove snow from their sidewalks and do not have other snow-removal resources, such as neighbors, friends or family, or a hired service.

The Snow Buddies program has limited capacity, which is determined by the number of volunteers.

The City is also asking for volunteers, known as "Snow Heroes," who want to help their neighbors in need this winter. Snow Heroes can sign up online.

Snow Heroes must be at least 18 years old and provide their own snow-removal equipment. Snow Heroes will be paired with residents based on factors such as location and availability.

Beginning at a 8 a.m. Tuesday, residents who meet the Snow Buddies program qualifications can sign up to request assistance online, or by calling City Solid Waste & Recycling Customer Service at 319-286-5897.

To qualify for assistance, individuals must:

• Reside in Cedar Rapids
• Have property with a sidewalk
• Be 65 years or older and/or have a mobility impairment
• Qualify under the income guidelines. For income eligibility, a single-person household can earn up to $35,600 per year, and a two-person household can earn up to $40,650 per year.

"We know how important it is for the community to be able to use safe, accessible sidewalks no matter the time of year," said Stephanie Schrader, Community Services Coordinator for the City of Cedar Rapids. "We've already heard from several residents who are interested in this service. We wanted to make sure everybody knows when the application window will be open."