The Snow Angels program operates through community associations across Regina, pairing volunteers with homeowners who struggle to keep up with snow removal. Many participants are seniors or people recovering from surgery, and some require ongoing support throughout the winter. (Brent Bosker/650 CKOM)

Snow angels in Regina ready for winter return

By Geoff Smith Feb 17, 2026 | 7:02 PM

The shovels are ready, the ice melt is being stocked up and volunteers known as snow angels have been preparing to tackle the snowfall being forecast for southern Saskatchewan.

In Regina, eleven community associations operate Snow Angel programs with funding support from the city. The goal is to ensure people who aren’t physically able to clear the sidewalks in front of their homes are able to have them done in accordance with Regina’s Clean Property bylaw.

“They often have health issues or mobility issues, so they can’t do it,” said volunteer Irene Terashima. “But I’m fortunately still physically able to shovel walks.”

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Terashima has been volunteering for the Heritage Community Association’s program as a snow angel since it began. She has been paired with various snow buddies, for whom she shovels.

On Tuesday, Terashima picked up some ice melt at the association’s office in the Mitakuyé Owâs’ā Centre.

She said with the weather this winter so far, she’s had to make monthly ice treatment visits. Meanwhile, snow shovelling typically takes her 15-30 minutes.

“One of my snow buddies uses a wheelchair and a mobility scooter, so he has a ramp, and he’s quite active,” she said. “He still is independent, living at home, but can’t travel the walk, so I’m over there every time it snows to make sure he can get in and out of his house safely.”

Amanda Benesh stands on a Regina street with a car, stop sign and buildings in the background. She wears a beaded lanyard, a white touque, pink glasses and a black jacket.

Amanda Benesh coordinates the Heritage Community Association Snow Angel program, which currently has nine volunteers assisting 18-22 “snow buddies.” (Geoff Smith/980 CJME)

Coordinator says community-based system working well

The Heritage Snow Angel program relies on nine volunteers, according to coordinator Amanda Benesh. Together, the volunteers help between 18 and 22 people.

“I’d say it’s really successful,” Benesh said. “We’re receiving a lot of support from volunteers in the community, and at times we even have volunteers that are outside the community just looking to support.”

She said the city funding pays for shovels, ice melt, and even boot spikes for volunteers. During a time of budget pressure for the city, she believes this model is one that works.

“It costs a lot to run a city, and I think we have enough able-bodied people who are willing to give their time to support others who are in need,” Benesh added. “We have our snow angel recipients who reach out to us and let us know how thankful and grateful they are for the snow angels that provide them the support.”

Terashima said it gives her snow buddies peace of mind to know they won’t face a fine, and it gives her a good feeling as well.

“I’m still physically able to do it. So, yeah, knock on wood, I haven’t thrown my back out or slipped and fallen or anything like that,” she said.