A Nuxalk grandfather in Bella Coola, B.C., voluntarily clears snowy driveways for those in need, including an elderly woman, emphasizing community support and teaching his grandson the value of helping others.
Community Support in Bella Coola
Michael Hood, a Nuxalk grandfather in Bella Coola, B.C., emphasizes the importance of teaching his 10-year-old grandson to engage with the community. He believes in giving back and spending time outdoors.
“Even if let’s say I won $1 million, I’d be well set but I’d still be working, still beautifying our reserve in Bella Coola,” said Hood.
Hood, a landscaper for the Nuxalk Nation, clears snowy driveways in his community, located about 430 kilometres north of Vancouver. He does this for those in need, free of charge.
“Sometimes they come out and they say, ‘Oh, I’ll give you some gas money,’ and so they’ll give you, like, anyway, from five to $20 for gas, and that’s about it,” said Hood.
“I don’t look for pay. I just go do it to help them out because that’s a lot of shovelling.”
Community Reactions
Marina Schooner, who works at Nuslhiixwta Place of Treasures, a family development centre, found her driveway cleared after weeks of snowfall. She was surprised and grateful for the help.
Schooner, who is close to retirement and has a disability, said, “When I looked in my driveway was like, ‘What?’ I said, ‘Where’s all the snow?’ I didn’t know what to think.”
She expressed her gratitude on social media, noting that the act of kindness symbolized respect.
“Coming from a stranger, that really hit my heart,” she said. “Growing up, as a child, everyone was there for each other. Everyone.”
Hood’s Motivation
Hood helps because he is the guardian for his grandson, whom he has cared for since he was three. He overheard Schooner needed assistance.
“Whether they’re a single person… if they’re elderly or something, I go out and just do it. Because I can do it,” said Hood.
“You need to, you know, help out people and that. That’s all I believe. And I’ve been teaching my grandson that.”
Hood aims to show his grandson and others that there are many opportunities to contribute in Bella Coola.
“You can probably make a list of, you know, 100-200 [things] that you can do,” said Hood.
Hood enjoys working for his community and sees no reason to stop helping, even in the off-season.
“I love doing it,” said Hood. “When you do something good, something will come back.”
| Person | Role | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Hood | Nuxalk Grandfather, Landscaper | Clears driveways for free |
| Marina Schooner | Employee at Nuslhiixwta Place of Treasures | Received driveway assistance |
