New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani speaks during a press conference at Grand Army Plaza in the Brooklyn borough of New York City, U.S., January 2, 2026. REUTERS/Jeenah Moon
(New York, New York) – Zohran Mamdani is urging residents across New York City to step up as a major blizzard barrels toward the region, calling on volunteers to serve as emergency snow shovelers during the storm.
In a public message ahead of the expected snowfall, Mamdani asked able-bodied New Yorkers to report to their local sanitation garages between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. tomorrow with the necessary paperwork to assist in clearing snow from streets and sidewalks.
City officials say the volunteer effort is designed to supplement sanitation crews and accelerate cleanup efforts, particularly in neighborhoods that are historically slower to recover after major winter storms.
The call to action comes as meteorologists warn of heavy snowfall, dangerous wind gusts, and hazardous travel conditions across the five boroughs. The city has already issued winter weather advisories and encouraged residents to avoid unnecessary travel.
Mamdani framed the initiative as a community-driven response to severe weather, emphasizing civic responsibility and neighborhood solidarity.
Critics, however, questioned whether the request signals strain on city services, arguing that snow removal is a core municipal function funded by taxpayers. Supporters counter that emergency volunteer mobilization is common during extreme weather events and can help protect vulnerable residents.
Officials have not yet released projections for total snowfall, but preparations are underway citywide as crews pre-treat roadways and position plows.
Residents interested in volunteering are advised to bring identification and required documentation and to dress appropriately for winter conditions.
