Snow Buddies

Thank you for your overwhelming response! At this time, we are no longer accepting applications for shoveling assistance due to the high number of requests already received. We appreciate your understanding and will do our best to assist those who have already applied.

The County of Brant's Snow Buddies Program is an initiative to assist seniors in our community with their snow shoveling needs by pairing them with a local "Snow Buddy".

Do you have difficulty shoveling and clearing snow?

Register with the County of Brant Snow Buddies Program. County staff will help those who need assistance find a nearby neighbour to help with basic snow removal on your property. Please note this program does not guarantee matches will be made.

Are you looking to help a senior in your community?

If you are 12 years or older, please consider being a Snow Buddy. The County is in need of many more Snow Buddies. Snow Buddies may receive volunteer hours or a small fee for the snow removal

Apply

At this time, we are no longer accepting applications for shoveling assistance due to the high number of requests already received. See below for tips on finding a Snow Buddy.
To apply to become a Snow Buddy, submit the Youth/Buddy Registration Form online

Tips for finding a Snow Buddy

Check with people in your neighbourhood
Post on social media (in local groups, looking for help)
Contact local landscaping/snow removal companies
Ask to post a sign in your local elementary/high school
Check with local churches for volunteers
Sign up for the Snow Angels Canada Program

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know the area that needs to be shoveled?

Buddies should be sure that they understand what areas they are responsible for clearing. The senior/adult should indicate exactly where the snow should be shoveled.

When is the work done?

Seniors should call their Snow Buddy when shoveling is needed.

If buddies cannot shovel in the morning before school begins, please let your senior know before the season.

If buddies are on vacation and unable to shovel, please contact the County of Brant at 519.44BRANT so we can try to arrange for a back-up buddy in case it snows while you are away. Buddies should also tell their senior buddy that they may need to arrange for alternative help if the County can't find a back-up.

Where do I get equipment?

Please discuss whether or not the Buddy is expected to bring his/her own shovel or if the senior has one available for use. Snow buddies are not permitted to use snow blowers.

Should Snow Buddies be paid?

If it very important that both parties agree to an amount each time the area is shoveled. Work should not begin if either party feels that a fair price has not been negotiated.

The County of Brant will provide a 'price guideline' in your welcome package to help you decide on an agreed amount. Be aware that as snowfalls vary in amounts, prices will vary as well. If clearing the area takes twice as much time after a large snowfall, then perhaps twice the amount should be paid.

Can I be a Snow Buddy to get my Volunteer Hours?

If buddies are working as volunteers for high school community service hours, then seniors should be told they will be keeping track of hours and signing a form at the end of the season. Students should request the form from their school Guidance Departments and also keep a running total of the hours worked.

Safety

To ensure both the safety of Seniors/ Adults and Buddies, we recommend that buddies do not enter the home of the client.

If the Buddy is required to spread salt, the Buddy should know where it is kept. If the Buddy is not comfortable with the location, then an agreed area should be decided on at the beginning of the season.

Buddies should never be asked to do any work with snow blowers or other machinery.