Yesterday, a phone call changed the course of my day. On the other end of the line was an elderly woman whose voice carried both distress and embarrassment. The strong winds had knocked down three panels of her fence, leaving her backyard exposed. To most, it might have seemed like a small inconvenience. But for her, it meant sleepless nights, anxiety about her safety, and the heavy worry of yet another unexpected expense.

Within an hour, I drove out to take a look. She met me at the door, her hands trembling slightly, her eyes filled with concern. She explained how much the fallen fence troubled her, not just for the lack of privacy but for the vulnerability it created. At her age, home is more than just four walls—it’s her sanctuary. And now, even that felt uncertain.

I repaired the fence the same day. It wasn’t a grand project, just some time and effort to set things right. But when I was finished, the relief in her face was unmistakable. She reached for her purse, asking what she owed me. That’s when the harder conversation began.

I told her there would be no charge. At first, she resisted. She didn’t want to take charity, didn’t want to feel like a burden. But after a moment, she sighed and explained: every month was a struggle just to keep up with her bills. The heating costs had risen. Groceries were more expensive. Her small pension was stretched so thin she often found herself forced to make choices no one should have to make—between being warm, or in this case, feeling safe behind a secure fence.

Her honesty struck me like a punch to the chest. Here was a woman who had worked her whole life, raised a family, contributed to her community, and now in her twilight years, she was left worrying whether she could afford something as basic as security in her own home.

I left that day determined to do more.

So here’s what I’ve decided: during this season of bad weather, my team and I are offering FREE fence repairs for any senior citizen who is struggling. No charge. No hidden fees. All we ask is a cup of tea and maybe a biscuit while we work.

Why? Because I believe businesses, when they’re in a position to, should give back. We’ve reached a size where we can afford to help. And helping those who need it most—the elderly, who built the world we now enjoy—is the least we can do.

I don’t want recognition or applause. I simply want our elderly neighbors to feel safe, to know that they aren’t alone, and to restore a little dignity where life has unfairly taken some away.

But I can’t do it alone. That’s why I’m asking for your help. Please spread the word. Tell your parents, your grandparents, your neighbors. If you know an elderly person who’s quietly struggling with fence damage this winter, let them know they don’t have to choose between heating their home and feeling secure.

Because kindness doesn’t have to cost money. Sometimes it’s just a little time, a little labor, and a willingness to step in when someone needs it.

At the end of the day, all I got in return was a smile, a heartfelt thank you, and the promise of a warm cup of tea. And honestly—that’s worth more than any payment could ever be.

This winter, let’s make sure our elderly aren’t left feeling forgotten. Let’s show them that community still matters.