Winter Tips and Resources
In Minnesota, winter weather can be harsh and unpredictable. Below are a few tips and resources to help older neighbors (and others!) get through the coldest, snowiest winter months.
Keep a Well-Stocked Pantry
It’s a good idea to keep shelf-stable food on hand in case going out for groceries isn’t possible as a result of severe weather events.
Meals on Wheels delivers Blizzard Bags (pictured above) at the start of each winter to meal recipients. These bags contain “low-cook, no-cook” foods and snacks that are easy to prepare, in case regular meal delivery is interrupted by dangerous weather conditions.
Check on Vulnerable Neighbors
Please consider checking in with your neighbors during inclement weather. Those with mobility issues may experience compounded difficulties getting the things they need.
Winter Sidewalk Safety & Resources
Keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice helps ensure that everyone—especially seniors and people with disabilities—can move safely through the community. When walkways aren’t cleared, it can limit access to groceries, prescriptions, work, and neighborhood activities.
If you’re able, consider lending a hand to neighbors who may have difficulty clearing their sidewalks. Seniors can contact Minnesota Aging Pathways at 1-800-333-2433 to request a referral for snow removal services. Trellis also maintains a list of organizations that may be able to help with household chores in the Twin Cities.
Sign Up for Meals on Wheels
Receiving meals is a great option for older adults who are experiencing mobility issues, especially during the winter. If you or a loved one could benefit from receiving fresh, home-delivered meals and friendly check-ins, please contact us at 612-623-3363 or sign up online to receive meals.
Other Food Assistance Programs
Additional resources such as grocery delivery programs that can help those with limited mobility may also be available in your community. The Minnesota Food HelpLine (call or text 1-888-711-1151) can help you find these resources, as well as food distribution and dining sites.
Resources for Staying Warm
The Energy Assistance Program
The Energy Assistance Program (EAP) helps pay home heating costs and furnace repairs for income-qualified households. This program is federally funded and does not have to be paid back as it is offered as a grant. Grants are available for both renters and homeowners, and are based on household size, income, and utility costs. Local Energy Assistance Partners can help with applications.
Cold Weather Rule
Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule (CWR) is a state law that protects residential utility customers from having electric or natural gas service shut off between October 1 and April 30. It requires making a payment plan with your Electric or Natural Gas utility company to receive CWR protection.
Low Income Weatherization Assistance Program
This program is supported by Minnesota Energy Resources which provide funds for Community Action Program (CAP) agencies. There is no cost for customers. If your household qualifies, a local weatherization service provider may conduct a free home assessment to identify cost-effective improvement opportunities to make your home more energy efficient. In order to be eligible for this program you must meet state and federal guidelines. To find out if you qualify, contact the Community Action Program in your area.
Warming Centers
Consider visiting your local library, mall, movie theater, church or faith center for a place to warm up during the day. Additional shelter can be found at designated warming centers throughout the Twin Cities. Find your local warming center by county:
For Hennepin County, visit hennepin.us or call their hotline at 612-204-8200.
For Ramsey County, visit ramseycounty.us or call their hotline at 651-266-1050.
For Anoka County resources, visit anokacountymn.gov.
Anyone in physical danger of freezing should call 911.