Pensioners ask community for help with repairs on farm
Two elderly residents struggling with medical conditions are facing challenges on their farm and are reaching out for help following numerous break-in attempts and tornado damage.
Two pensioners struggling with medical and mental illnesses are requesting the community’s assistance with the numerous repairs needed on their farm, some of which resulted from the tornado last year that impacted various areas.
• Also read: Tornado disaster: Lending a helping hand in difficult times
Resident and pensioner Jeanette Tarr explained that her daughter purchased the farm for her and her husband, Shaine, as they have difficulty living in the city.
Over the years, their property has sustained significant damage that they are both unable to repair due to their medical conditions, in addition to the financial burden. Jeanette explained they have insurance, but for some reason, many of their claims have not been approved.
The damages include walls that were knocked down, some by the tornado. The ceiling on their porch is damaged, and their gate motor is out of order. They also cannot rent out two of the apartments on the property, as one’s roof was blown off by the tornado, and the other is leaking, resulting in a loss of income for them. Jeanette added that their borehole pump was stolen, and they struggle without water. They flush the toilet with pool water, and bathing is a challenge.
I ask that someone please come and help us fix what is broken. We are not mentally and medically able to fix it,” Tarr pleaded.
In addition to the number of damages that need repair, there have also been several break-ins and attempted break-ins on their farm. They have a one-bedroom apartment that was broken into and badly damaged. They also boarded up the window to the garage and the front door due to attempted break-ins.
She explained that she and her husband have been living on the farm for 14 years. However, on weekends, school holidays, and special occasions, their family, friends, and grandchildren visit.
They are also considering selling the farm; however, they do not know how to go about it.
Anyone who would like to reach out can contact Tarr at 061 202 5308.
