In October of 2017 wildfires swept through northern Portugal, destroying much of Jody's house, his tools and jeep. As he works as a builder, not only has he lost his home, but also his means of income. A group of his friends have got together to try and work out a way to help. This page is the result. If we can raise enough money to at least replace the tools and jeep, Jody can get working again to earn the money needed to rebuild his life. Every little helps and sends a positive message to our friend in these difficult times.

A NOTE FROM JODY

HOW & WHY WE SHOULD HELP HIM

Jody is an inspiration to many of us as he has followed his heart and his dreams all his life. The house which he build was almost 100% off-grid living and Jody demonstrated to all of us, how this life style can be achieved. He built compost toilets, solar pumps, irrigation systems and flirted with both hydro and wind power.

Jody also focused on nature and wildlife around him and helped polecats, birds, wild pigs and many more to enjoy the environment he had created.

If Jody can get back onto his feet, he has plans to start to repair his roof, bring the land back to life and even to start a tree farm - yes I know it sounds madness in a place riddled with fire, but he plans to do it differently by growing natural trees in pots (in pots again) in the ground, that can be moved to safer places should a fire start again.

WHAT THE MONEY WILL BE SPENT ON...

Firstly, Jody needs tools again. Below is a selection of his cutters, diggers and things to move stuff! He also has lost nearly all of his tools. He has said to me that with £500 he can restock his tools and begin doing proper work again!

Then there was his jeep which was also lost. I don't think he expects to get this replaced, but being stuck out in the middle of nowhere is certainly a problem. Below is what he lost. He believes this will be an additional £1000.

And lastly there is the roof of the house, which will be more expensive at around £3000 to £5000. This is obviously a massive task but one which will really allow him to rebuild his life.

AND LASTLY....

Jody is thinking about building a tree farm at the property. This will be separately funded, but for the initial work can be done very cheaply and will help to restore this land and the other parts of Portugal in need of new trees.

PLEASE HELP IN ANYWAY YOU CAN - £1's a start to get one of life's doers back on his feet XXX