PARIS (NEWS CENTER Maine) — Police in Maine are launching Operation Snowflake.
Snowflake, in today's world, is often used to refer to a person who is especially sensitive or offended by others, usually politically.
Police in Paris are staying out of politics, rather they are asking for a crew of citizens who would be willing to shovel and de-ice the walkways and steps of seniors in their community.
In a post on Facebook, they said:
"We thought maybe we could develop a crew of dedicated local volunteers who would be willing to give back to the community in order to help our local elders, so Operation Snowflake was born!
Police are asking for individuals, students, families and community groups to sign up at the town hall to participate.
Chief Hartley Mowatt of the Paris Police Dept. said students at SAD 17 have to complete 20 hours of community service to graduate high school, and this is a great way for them to accomplish it.
Mowatt said during winter storms elderly couples often call the police department needing help to clear their walkways.
Those who need help can now also call the Paris town office at (207) 743-2501 or the Paris Police Dept. at (207) 743-7448.
Police will connect those in need with the volunteers who have signed up. Town officials said the program is only about two weeks old.
Parks and Recreation Director Shannon Moxie says they have received several requests for help already this winter.
