In a time when skilled craftsmen are becoming increasingly rare, Slavko Barešić’s trade could be very lucrative. However, this plumber dedicates at least one day a month (and is considering increasing this to more) to repairing issues for those who cannot afford to pay.
It all started when he was once called to a family of three on the outskirts of Belgrade to unclog a drain. “However, when I finished, I wanted to wash my hands and noticed there was no hot water.
I asked what the problem was, and they said the boiler wasn’t working. I asked how the children bathed, and they showed me a large pot where they heated water. I took a look, went to a nearby store, bought and replaced the heater. I waited two hours, and when the water heated up, I said, ‘Now the plumber will be the first to bathe.’ The children laughed and were overjoyed… And then it continued in various other situations,” said Slavko Barešić.
He says that people rarely contact him directly. “They hide their poverty and misfortune, their sorrow, as I would say. Usually, someone else contacts me on their behalf. Most people endure it and keep quiet, like the ones I mentioned first. They were without a boiler for three months, they could have found someone. But they’re simply ashamed, what will people say? And that ‘what will people say’ ruins many people,” says the plumber.
He adds that certain companies help him by providing materials at a reduced price.
“However, colleagues are not very responsive. I come across as a black sheep, and I would like to not be the black sheep, but rather for there to be more of us. Sometimes colleagues respond, but it’s not very often. I would like to appeal to more colleagues, not just plumbers, but others as well, to join in,” he said.
He also appeals to anyone who has a good bathtub or something else to donate it.
“I often have situations where people who are removing old appliances ask me to take them so that I can install them for others,” he said.
While he initially dedicated a specific day of the month to free work, he now does more, the master craftsman Slavko added.
“I’m thinking of making it two or three days a month. I can’t do everything, but if I find someone to help a little with materials or fuel, I’ll gladly give my work for free for three days. Citizens can find me through social networks. I have an Instagram and Facebook profile, and my mobile number is 061-245-2281.
Today, all my appointments are full, but if someone needs something urgent tomorrow or the day after, feel free to call them or another day,” concluded Master Slavko.
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Source: N1 Photo: N1