Some moms are trying to find fresh starts on Kauai after being in abusive relationships. They could use a good bit of Christmas spirit to come their way. Malama and her husband moved to Kauai with their two children: Ally,
Some moms are trying to find fresh starts on Kauai after being in abusive relationships. They could use a good bit of Christmas spirit to come their way.
Malama and her husband moved to Kauai with their two children: Ally, 10, and Caleb, 2. They were hoping for a fresh start. Malama realized that her husband continued to be abusive and took the kids to the shelter for safety. She found employment and is working on gaining safe housing and reliable childcare. Ally loves to read and do art. Caleb wants a tricycle. Malama is hoping her kids will have a good Christmas even though she cannot buy gifts.
Desi is another mom struggling to just get by during the holidays. The 39-year-old has been in an abusive relationship for almost 20 years. She says she is positive that she is ready to start a new violence-free life. She has moved into a small place which she can afford with a part-time job and all that she earns goes for rent and gas.
She could use furniture and new appliances. Her 14-year-old daughter, who lives with her half of the time, loves school and hula, and could use a new backpack and school shoes.
The community has a chance to help families like these through the The Garden Island/Zonta Christmas Fund, which was established in the early 1980s. Many families have benefited through the generosity of the community.
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, just a bunch of volunteers with hearts of gold.
Through Christmas Eve, The Garden Island will share stories about families (we don’t use their real names) facing challenges and who would appreciate 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.
