Letter to the editor

The arrival of snow brings out a whole range of emotions: joy at the thought of skiing in our Cranbrook wonderland, resignation at the thought of all the inevitable shovelling, and for many people, fear at the thought of trying to walk on sidewalks not cleared of snow.

Snow covered walks make it difficult for anyone with mobility issues to navigate. Walkers, strollers, and wheelchairs get stuck, small dogs or children get covered in snow, and it often becomes slippery, sloshy, or icy.

One of the easiest ways to make a difference in the life of a senior is to make sure your sidewalks are shovelled. And better yet, after your sidewalk is cleared, think about your neighbours. Is anyone sick or recovering from an injury? Who might need your assistance in getting their sidewalk shovelled? Has anyone gone out of town? Walking as a means of transportation only works when all the walks are cleared, and sometimes this takes a collective effort.

There are two formalized snow removal programs in Cranbrook. If you are in need of snow shovelling, or if you are able to help by shovelling for others, please contact one of the following:

Charlene Turner, the Volunteer Services Manager, Canadian Mental Health Association- Kootenays, at 250 426-5222 ext 3034 ([email protected]) . All CMHA programs or services are free for those who are eligible.

Or Laurie Harris, Program Coordinator – Better at Home, 250 426-2943 ( [email protected] ). Better at Home programs provides a range of non-medical support services aimed at helping seniors remain independent for longer.

Together, let’s keep Cranbrook’s sidewalks cleared, and get out and enjoy the winter.

Charlene Sperling,

Cranbrook Age Friendly Coordinator

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