As I said in my last blog post, I am trying to help people living in Canberra manage the increasing stressors brought on by the high cost of living. I am also feeling these stressors, but I am fortunate enough to have inherited a home from my grandfather a few years ago. I completely own the home and don’t have to pay off a mortgage, which means I am able to adjust to the higher cost of living much easier. I recognise that I am very fortunate to be in this position and I am trying to give back to the community as a result.
I have approached my elderly neighbour who is living off of the pension and asked them if they needed a ducted heater servicing this year. Canberra technicians perform services annual or monthly depending on the requirements of individuals’ heaters. I decided to ask my elderly neighbour about her heating situation without letting her know that I would be happy to pay for her service if she needed it. She says she does need one but hasn’t gotten around to booking it in yet. Perfect.
I am going to get on the phone and anonymously book a heating repairs service. Canberra residents face a long waiting list for heating repairs at this time of year because everyone who has put it off until the last minute is now scrambling to get it done before the real cold snap sets in. It’s already freezing here in Canberra but it’s only going to get worse.
I hope my elderly neighbour is pleasantly surprised by my gift. By paying for her heating repairs, which is an absolute necessity and something she would have to pay for eventually, I am freeing her up to spend her pension on other things. She can take her grandchildren out for an ice cream or purchase a new jacket for her dog. I am glad to give her this opportunity.