A pensioner who was planning to have eggs on toast for Christmas dinner burst into tears after being left with just £1.67 in her bank until 2023.
The 89-year-old was receiving help for a leaking tap by Community Interest Company, Depher, when she burst into floods of tears for "40 minutes". James Anderson, from Liverpool, and his team are known for fitting and maintaining boilers for those who can't afford it, helping out with food, LancsLive reports.
But after seeing the elderly woman, James shared the heartbreaking story on his social media, along with another gut-wrenching story of a man whose cupboards were left bare. As well as a completely empty fridge and freezer, the man had just a few slices of bread in his cupboard.
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He wrote: " An 89-year-old lady with only £1.67 in the bank until mid-January. Three presents from friends, a few cards. She is having eggs on toast for her Christmas dinner. I went to see her to repair a leaking tap, and she cried on my should for 40 minutes."
In an update, James later revealed he had bought enough food at Asda to last the woman 60 days, as well as buying her a proper Christmas dinner. The groceries had been delivered on Wednesday, December 21 when James also hinted that she would receive plenty of gifts.
James said: "The lady's shopping has been delivered. Enough food for 60 days and a nice Christmas dinner. She will have plenty of gifts delivered by Father Christmas."
Depher's ongoing GoFundMe page, available here, has raised over £200,000 since it was launched. James’ post on Twitter was met with a wave of support as one user wrote: "You are a truly wonderful man James. I’m smiling lots. You’re definitely on the good list."
Another said: "The new definition of *a huge and caring heart* - James and Depher!! I can only imagine the smile on this lady's face and the relief when the groceries arrived. She will have THE best nights sleep tonight for sure!"
The fundraiser reads: "My name is James Anderson from Depher cic UK; with my teams, I have been supporting the elderly, vulnerable and disabled members of the UK for six years. We have delivered a life-saving service to over 1 million people, with plumbing, heating, gas, electricity and food, amongst many other benefits.
"As we all know, it will be tough this year for many people and families, especially the elderly and vulnerable. With the cost of energy and essential bills increasing every day, we do all we can to support many who come to us for help."
It adds: "We are raising funding to help us continue our essential and life-saving service for our Elderly, Vulnerable and disabled members. The government and councils do not support Depher CiC with any form of funding or donations; we rely on the kindness and generosity of the public and high-profile community members."
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