‘You got this Bella’: Aldergrove students, staff pay tribute to breakfast program volunteer

ALDERGROVE (NEWS 1130) — Students and staff at an Aldergrove elementary school are showing their love and appreciation for a volunteer that has worked with the school for six years.

Bella Howat dishes up comforting food as part of the school’s breakfast program and has become a beloved member of the community at Shortreed Elementary School.

But because of a serious health concern, Howat has had to take a step back from her role.

Principal Chris Wejr says Howat treats the children as though they are her own, and shows extraordinary dedication to her role.

“Bella is such a huge part of our community. She spends hours of her own time shopping, prepping, and serving food, as well as organizing volunteers, so kids can have breakfast and a positive connection with caring adults to start each day,” he says.

Wejr says Howat doesn’t t usually use a wheelchair, but the video shows her in one because she became overwhelmed. Wejr says they borrowed the wheelchair so she could take her time going down the hallway and take in all the support she was being shown.

Students and staff lined the halls on her last day waving hand-made signs and joining in a round of applause. At the end of her procession down the hallway she was given flowers from her co-volunteers.

“We are so thankful for all she has brought to the school,” Wejr says. “We will be supporting her through her fight for her health and hope to see her back at our school as soon as she is ready.”