Hyattsville Launches Neighbor Snow Shoveling Program

When snow blanketed Hyattsville in January, neighbors grabbed shovels and helped each other without being asked. Now the city wants to make sure that spirit of kindness shows up every winter.

The Hyattsville City Council approved $3,000 to launch a volunteer snow removal program that will match able-bodied residents with elderly and disabled neighbors who need help clearing their sidewalks. City staff will begin recruiting volunteers this October.

"There were a lot of neighbors that came out during the last storm and wanted to support each other," said City Councilmember Gopi Dhokai at the February 23 meeting. She noticed volunteers were ready to help but didn't always know who needed it most.

The new program solves that problem. City Communications Manager Cindy Zork explained that staff will create a database matching volunteers with residents who request assistance, track volunteer hours, and ensure everyone who needs help gets it.

This marks a big upgrade from Hyattsville's previous approach. The old "HVL Heroes" program simply handed out shovels, gloves, and rakes to willing volunteers who then figured out on their own who to help. The new system puts city staff in charge of coordination so no one falls through the cracks.

The Ripple Effect

The program does more than prevent slippery sidewalks. It protects vulnerable residents from $500 citations they'd face for not clearing snow within 24 hours of a storm's end. Many older and disabled residents physically cannot shovel but would still be held responsible under city code.

City Administrator Tracey Douglas emphasized the importance of supporting these residents during the council meeting. The city is even considering purchasing snowblowers to loan out, though staff are still working through safety and liability details with the city attorney.

Volunteers and residents receiving help will sign waivers to address potential injuries or property damage. But the real protection comes from knowing your neighbors have your back when the next storm rolls in.

What started as neighbors helping neighbors during one snowstorm is becoming a permanent promise that no one in Hyattsville has to face winter alone.