New Bedford Plow Driver’s Small Act Made a Big Difference

The SouthCoast got another dose of winter recently, and thankfully, it wasn’t quite the beast of a storm we saw a few weeks back.

However, it dumped enough snow to remind us that February isn’t done with us yet.

Here in New Bedford, the bigger issue isn’t even how much snow falls anymore. It’s where to put it. Sidewalks are stacked high, parking spots are disappearing, and unless you’re hauling snow to your backyard, those piles just keep growing. Finding a place to park has become its own winter sport.

Saturday night, February 7, I was out in the West End helping a neighbor shovel out her parking spot while also trying to figure out where my wife was going to put her car. My back was already screaming, and honestly, morale was low.

A Simple Act of Kindness on a Cold Night

Out of nowhere, a city plow driver rolled by, slowed down, and dropped his window. He told us he’d circle back and clear the snow for us so my neighbor could actually get her car into the spot. Mind you, it was late. He’d already been plowing all day and mentioned he couldn’t wait to get home to his family and a hot meal.

That stuck with me.

He could’ve easily called it a night. Nobody would’ve blamed him, but instead, he chose to help.

READ MORE: New Bedford Police Cracks Down on Snow Parking Savers

Before driving off, he said something I won’t forget: if he sees someone struggling with snow or giving it their all to push it aside, he always tries to stop and help. It's something he can't help, but is happy to lend a hand whenever he can.

Sure enough, he came back around the block. What would’ve taken us another hour of back-breaking work was handled in about 30 seconds with one clean sweep of that plow.

Yes, technically it’s his job, but there was real humanity in his voice and actions — the kind that reminds you there are still good people quietly doing good things.

I wish I caught his name so I could thank him personally. Since I didn’t, I just want to send a heartfelt "thank you" to the City of New Bedford and especially that plow driver out there looking out for residents when they need it most. Especially with all the negativity going around and complaints up the ying-yang regarding the way the city is handling the snow situation. There's always one rotten egg in the bunch.

Anyways, kind sir, wherever you are — thank you.