Online Reporter
Patience Ndlovu and Brenda P Shumba
Doves Funeral Services has honoured the widow of renowned philanthropist and founder of the Jairos Jiri Association, the late Mr Jairos Jiri, with a lifetime support package in recognition of her contributions to the nation.
Mrs Betty Jiri (86), was presented with monthly grocery hampers, a paid-up funeral policy, and the services of a full-time helper, courtesy of Doves. The gesture aims to celebrate her while she is still alive and acknowledge the lasting legacy of the Jairos Jiri Centres across Zimbabwe.
Speaking during the handover, Doves Public Relations Manager Mr Innocent Tshuma said the company was committed to supporting Mrs Jiri through tangible assistance.
“As Doves, we thought of how best we could honour Betty Jiri and appreciate the efforts she has made for the community and the country at large. Her great movement left footmarks worldwide—there is no one who does not know about the Jairos Jiri Centres. So we are giving the lady her flowers while she is still alive,” said Mr Tshuma.
“Therefore, we will provide her with a funeral policy so that, when the unfortunate day comes, she will have a decent and well-deserved farewell. We will also pay her helper monthly, provide groceries at the end of every month, and her helper will also be given a funeral policy. We will make sure that she is well taken care of,” he said.
Mrs Jiri’s caregiver, Ms Pertunia Nyengerai, will also receive support under the package.
In an emotional response, Mrs Jiri expressed her gratitude for the recognition and kindness shown.
“I feel very grateful for what Doves has done. It is an honour to be finally recognised and appreciated after a very long time. I am deeply grateful for the help, love, care and support that I am witnessing today,” she said.
Mrs Jiri has remained a quiet pillar of strength behind the legacy of the Jairos Jiri Association, which continues to serve people living with disabilities across Zimbabwe.
