Do you remember a few weeks ago when everyone was talking about McMaster students raising money for their favourite HSR bus driver? Now, a few Mohawk College students have gotten together to draw attention to an issue they have with the HSR. According to Jacob Valk, Michael Kalte and Jordan Speare: a driver shortage and long routes have made it so that HSR bus drivers don’t get coffee breaks.
The break issue has many aspects to it ranging from ergonomics, bathroom use, to the luxury of purchasing a coffee during work. We’ve all experienced the slight disruption on our commutes when the bus driver pulls over unexpectedly and leaves the bus idle while running off to Tim’s for a few minutes. It’s a hassle for the commuters but it points to a larger break issue that the HSR drivers face while on daily routes.
This lack of breaks inspired Jacob, Michael and Jordan to intervene by unexpectedly purchasing coffee or tea for select HSR drivers. According to Jacob, the bus drivers were delighted and after the video came out many drivers who weren’t there to receive a coffee messaged the group with notes of appreciation. When asked if the passengers on these buses took issue with any disruptions filming may have caused, Jacob says, “None of the passengers had any problems at all. A few thanked us for what we were doing.” Jacob hasn’t heard from anyone from The City of Hamilton / HSR.
This coffee video ends with a call to action. Jacob and crew would like to see people doing small acts of kindness in their communities. Stay tuned to Jacob’s YouTube channel for future videos.
