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10-Year-Old Mows Lawns All Summer To Help His Dad Rebuild After Wildfire Loss

July 3, 2025

When wildfires forced schools to close early in northeastern Saskatchewan, most kids welcomed an extended summer break. But 10-year-old Hunter Larsen from Creighton had something else on his mind—helping his dad start over after losing his home in a devastating fire.

In early June, Hunter received the heartbreaking news that his father’s house in Denare Beach had been destroyed. With his dad now living in a van alongside their loyal dog, Shadow, Hunter felt a strong desire to do more than just offer words of comfort.

So, he grabbed a lawnmower.

Hunter cutting grass to raise money for his father's house

What started as a simple $10-per-lawn summer job quickly turned into something much bigger. As word of Hunter’s mission spread throughout the community, neighbors didn’t just line up for lawn service—they began donating well beyond the original asking price, with some giving up to $100 or more for a single yard. Others contributed without even needing their grass cut, moved by the boy’s determination and heart.

Despite the sweltering summer heat—often reaching 30°C—Hunter pushes through, one yard at a time. Locals offer him cold drinks and high praise for his efforts. And he humbly takes it in stride.

“They’re proud of me for doing this and they thank me for doing this,” Hunter shared during an interview with CTV News.

His mom, Amanda MacQuarrie, isn’t surprised by her son’s generosity.

The wildfire damage that destroyed many homes in Saskatchewan

“Hunter is just such an amazing kid,” she said. “His entire life he’s just been so helpful. If you ask any of his teachers, he’s just, like, the sweetest, kindest boy. He just wants to help everybody. Animals, everything. So, I’ve been really lucky.”

So far, Hunter has raised $1,500 and mowed 30 lawns—and he’s not stopping anytime soon. He plans to keep going until school resumes in the fall, doing everything he can to help his dad get back on his feet.

His mom has also set up a GoFundMe page to further support the effort.