ELK GROVE, Calif. — This holiday season a landscaping company is teaming up with a nonprofit to provide free gutter cleaning services to people in need in Elk Grove.
Their list includes seniors, veterans, healthcare employees and those with a disability.
"It's very hard, especially [when] I don't have the right equipment. I don't have a blower. You just have to use your hands and scoop it up. It just takes forever," said senior Peter Tam who lives in Elk Grove.
In the past, Tam has opted to clean his gutters on his own. But with time, it becomes a more difficult task.
This year, the veteran is getting a little help from his neighbor Temi Salako who owns Scape Aesthetics.
"Each year during the fall season, we try to find innovative ways to contribute to the community. It just so happens that fall season is when a lot of leaves drop down into the gutters, clogging [them]. This can actually cost homeowners thousands in damage if it's not addressed," said Salako.
His landscaping company is working with the "We are One campaign" which helps to foster unity and finds practical ways to help the community.
They've been partnering together since the fall of 2021 and have helped about 50 people.
The mission is to focus on veterans, healthcare workers, people with disabilities and seniors like Tam.
"That is wonderful. It's very convenient. I've been looking for people to clean my gutters and I finally met a wonderful neighbor," said Tam.
It's a service that normally would cost hundreds of dollars, being done for free.
"With the condition of this home... [it'd] probably be about $200. It's gonna be pretty pricey, especially with two-story buildings it gets a lot more expensive. With the type of roofing material, whether it's shingles or tiles, there's so many things that need to be taken into consideration," said Salako. "I think it's a blessing that we're able to do this to help the community."
The cleanup is giving Tam a chance to use his money and time with other things this holiday season.
"I have all kind of hobbies and you know with friends, and you know social interactive with my friends and family. That will give me a lot more time. And stay cleaner too," said Tam.
If you'd like to be considered for help, you can contact the landscaping company at (916) 318-8825. They're also looking for volunteers to help them clean gutters as well.
