With consistent snow events, increasing calls from senior citizens for snow removal assistance, and limited available programs, Aurora Mayor Irvin announced yesterday a new initiative to fill the gap.  

“I am calling on Aurorans to stand up, yet again, for our fellow residents,” said Mayor Irvin during a Facebook Live announcement. “We have senior citizens and persons with disabilities in need of services. Let’s come together as one Aurora to help them stay safe by having accessible walkways and driveways.”

In response to the demand, the City of Aurora has launched Operation Senior Shovel, a free program for senior citizens age 65 an older and disabled persons in need of assistance; and volunteers who are willing to dedicate their time to provide shoveling services. 

Operation Senior Shovel is a weather-related service that is only activated after snow events of 2 inches or more. For the inaugural year, requests for assistance must be made per snow event. 

Seniors, persons with disabilities, or their designees can request assistance after snow events of 2 inches or more by calling 630-256-3015, emailing [email protected], or completing a request form at www.aurora-il.org/SeniorShovel.   

Volunteers can only register online at www.aurora-il.org/SeniorShovel, where they can specify which ward(s) they can provide service. All volunteers must provide their own shovels or snow blowers.   

City staff will contact both seniors and volunteers to arrange for snow shoveling services, with every effort to arrange for assistance within 48 hours after a snow event of 2 inches or more. No direct contact is necessary between the senior citizen and volunteer. 

With forecasted snow for the weekend, the City is encouraging volunteers to sign up today at www.aurora-il.org/SeniorShovel.