Two Hartbeespoort teenagers took it to heart when they recently visited a family member’s grave at the Schoemansville graveyard and saw the derelict state of the graveyard and graves. The idea was born to help community members maintain loved ones’ graves and earn a bit of pocket money too.
“I was sad to see how the graveyard was neglected and thought of how many people’s loved ones are lying there and who might not be able to clean up the grave areas. In some places the grass was taller than us. As my brother and I were cleaning our family member’s grave, I thought why not offer our services,” said Marike Erasmus (16).
“Yes, it was sad to see that at some places you could not even see the graves. I felt sorry for those who cannot look after the graves of the people they loved,” said Eugene Erasmus (13).
The two teenagers came up with an idea to clean up graves twice a month for a small fee. “We are young and strong and we can help those who cannot do it,” Marike says. Since offering their services, Marike and Eugene have been kept busy cleaning grave sites on weekends.
“It is rewarding to see a clean and neat grave after we have finished and I think it gives peace of mind to the person’s family members,” Marike says.
The siblings can be contacted on 082 570 5253.