Detroit Volunteers Shovel Snow for Seniors in Need

After Detroit's latest snowstorm dumped heavy snow across the city, seniors and disabled residents faced more than an inconvenience. Blocked driveways and sidewalks became barriers to life essentials like medication, groceries, and doctor visits.

That's when Detroit's volunteers showed up. Through the Serve Detroit Snow Removal Program, community members mobilized to provide free snow removal for residents who can't shovel themselves.

On the city's west side, Dwight Harris and his group from Icon 10 bundled up and got to work. "You've got to have some arm power, you've got to have some leg power, too," Harris said. "But I think caring is most important when it comes to community."

For Harris, the work hits close to home. "A lot of times, they don't have nobody," he explained. "They are living at home, by themselves, and they need help."

The program has become a lifeline during major snowfalls. Tonie Stovall, Detroit's Volunteer Coordinator, said the phones start ringing as soon as the snow starts falling. "Seniors are calling, and we are here to serve," she said.

Sunny's Take

What makes this story shine is how ordinary people transform a weather crisis into community connection. Harris emphasized getting children involved too, teaching the next generation that caring for neighbors matters. When one resident opens their curtains to see shoveled pathways they couldn't clear themselves, that's more than snow removal. That's someone saying you matter, we see you, and you're not alone this winter.

The city maintains an active volunteer list to respond quickly when storms hit. Stovall said more helpers are always needed as requests surge with each snowfall. "Whenever they call, we are boots on the ground," Harris said.

Detroit residents needing assistance or wanting to volunteer can apply through the City of Detroit Department of Neighborhoods, keeping the neighbor-helping-neighbor spirit alive one shovelful at a time.