Serving our troops, one shovel of snow at a time

By Jenny Yu.  

Volunteers nationwide clear driveways and sidewalks so families can avoid winter stress while a loved one is deployed. 

The holiday season can be especially difficult for military families with loved ones who are deployed. Not only are they missing a key member of the family during a time of festivity, but the winter weather can also pose serious challenges in their everyday lives. Built up snow and ice can put families’ safety at risk while also making it difficult to simply move the car out of the driveway for errands. 

This winter, Project EverGreen’s SnowCare for Troops is helping military families with snow and ice management by professionals to give back to the people who are serving our country. In a guest post for the National Association of Landscape Professionals’ blog, The Edge, Project EverGreen Executive Director Cindy Code wrote that each winter, the program “connects approximately 700 volunteer snow and ice management professionals with around 500 military families across the country in need of assistance.” 

These volunteers help clear driveways and walkways so families can stay safe and moving during the coldest months of the year while a loved one is deployed. While some might be intimidated by the amount of work required for a volunteer, Cindy explained that commitment is quite simple. “Most volunteers are matched with just one military family, and you choose how much you can take on,” she stated. “Even clearing a single driveway after a snowstorm can make a huge difference.” 

Cindy encouraged landscape and snow management companies to get involved as a way to live out their company’s values. “It’s an opportunity to do what you do best, take care of people through your craft,” she said. “Supporting the program showcases your company’s heart in action and helps your team experience the true impact of service beyond business goals. It’s about helping neighbors, honoring service and making a tough season a little easier for those who sacrifice so much.” 

Learn more about how you can volunteer and support Project EverGreen’s SnowCare for Troops!