Nuxalk grandfather in B.C. clears snowy driveways for free

Michael Hood, a Nuxalk grandfather and landscaper in Bella Coola, B.C., uses his side-by-side to clear neighbours' snowy driveways at no charge. He says he is teaching his 10-year-old grandson to get outside and give back to the community.

Michael Hood is a Nuxalk grandfather and a landscaper for the Nuxalk Nation in Bella Coola, about 430 kilometres north of Vancouver. He clears snowy driveways on the reserve using his side-by-side and does not charge those who need help. Hood says he wants to teach his 10-year-old grandson to spend time outside and give back to the community. He also says he plans to continue helping people even when he is not on the job with the First Nation. Key details: - Hood clears driveways on the reserve free of charge, sometimes receiving small offers of gas money from neighbours. - He works as a landscaper for the Nuxalk Nation and is guardian for his 10-year-old grandson, whom he is teaching to help others. - A neighbour who works at Nuslhiixwta Place of Treasures found her roughly 20-metre driveway cleared after snowfall and posted a thank-you message on social media. She described the act as a symbol of respect. - Hood says he enjoys working for his people and sees no reason not to keep helping outside of his formal work season. Summary: Hood's actions prompted public thanks and were described by a neighbour as a meaningful act of respect. He says he will continue helping others on the reserve and aims to pass the habit of community service to his grandson.