Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in September 2019.
In a heartwarming tale of selflessness, James Anderson, a 52-year-old plumber from Burnley, has become a symbol of compassion and generosity. After closing down his private business, Anderson relaunched as the not-for-profit organization, Depher, with a single mission: to help those in need.
Photo Credit: James Anderson/Facebook
One incident that truly exemplified Anderson’s incredible kindness recently went viral. A bill posted online revealed that he charged a 91-year-old woman, suffering from acute leukemia, a grand total of £0. That’s right, he refused to take a single penny for his services, declaring, “No charge for this lady under any circumstances. We will be accessible 24 hours to help her and keep her as relaxed as possible.”
The positive public reaction to his actions was nothing short of overwhelming. Anderson confessed, “We didn’t expect it. It’s been everywhere.” It’s no surprise that his story touched the hearts of many across the nation.
Photo Credit: James Anderson/Facebook
Anderson’s financing model is as heartwarming as his work. He relies on crowdfunding and donations to fund Depher, allowing him to provide essential plumbing services to those in need across Lancashire. His work has extended from the winter of 2017 to the present, ensuring that no one in his community is left in the cold or without essential plumbing services.
However, his noble endeavors have not come without personal sacrifice. Anderson acknowledges that the switch to not-for-profit work has plunged him into debt, to the tune of approximately £8,000. Yet, he remains resolute in his mission, stating, “To me, debt is debt… I would rather owe some money to somebody and another person be alive and happy and safe. It’s an ethos that’s in my heart, and it will always stay there.”
Photo Credit: James Anderson/Facebook
Having already made a significant impact in Lancashire, Anderson’s sights are set on a grander scale. He aspires to take Depher’s work nationwide, and he’s not alone in this ambition. Anderson reveals, “I’ve spoken to quite a few engineers around the country, and they’re all for it… it’s just getting the funding.” His ultimate goal is to ensure that no elderly or disabled person in the country has to suffer or die because of a cold home or lack of funding to repair their boiler. In his eyes, the number of such cases should be reduced to zero.