Young mothers and their children could use a warm embrace from the community this Christmas.
Alyssa has been out of work for a couple of years. She has been offered a full-time position and is looking forward to being employed again. She and her daughter, Kalena, are living in their car.
Alyssa’s biggest desire is to find affordable housing once she starts working. She would love some new work clothes and shoes.
Kalena is behind in math and would benefit from tutoring and books. She enjoys activities such as swimming, dancing, hiking and hanging out with friends. As far as gifts, Alyssa said Kalena would like a new swimsuit and new hiking boots.
Lori and her seven-year-old daughter, Cheri, recently moved to Kauai from the Mainland to escape Lori’s abusive husband. Lori has already established herself by finding work and a house. Cheri loves her new home and her grades have improved dramatically since moving here. Lori is happy that she and Cheri feel safe.
Lori said she could use new household items like linens and small appliances. She said she really needs a coffee maker. Cheri misses her books and toys from her old home and would like to replace them.
The Zonta/Garden Island Christmas Fund is one way to help these families.
The fund was established in the early 1980s. Many families have benefited through the generosity of the community.
“It’s brought a lot of happiness to families in need,” said Yoshiko “Dimples” Kano, the driving force behind the fund for more than 20 years.
Donations are distributed by Zonta Club members, who purchase gift certificates at appropriate businesses to make wishes come true.
Each donated dollar is accounted for and recorded. There are no administrators collecting salaries.
Through Christmas Eve, The Garden Island will share stories about families (we don’t use their real names) facing challenges and who would appreciate a little help.
Anyone making a donation of $50 or more can have their picture presenting the check published in TGI.
Only monetary donations are accepted. Checks, payable to Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation, can be mailed to P.O. Box 3032, Lihue, HI 96766. Info: 822-9882.
