Olivia is a single mother of two who is going through exceptionally hard times.
Their home, much of their belongings and vehicle were damaged in the April flooding. The family has been desperate, living out of their vehicles and relying on the generosity of friends and the community. As a small business owner, Olivia has struggled to keep her income at pre-flood levels but has fallen far behind on her bills.
Olivia is in need of dental work as well as consistent child care to allow her to work full time.
Liam was another victim of the flooding. Liam had been living out of his vehicle when the floods hit, demolishing his tool shed and ruining most of his tools.
Liam continues to work jobs where tools are available but has suffered significant losses to his primary source of income. Furthermore, Liam’s truck tires are worn out and need to be replaced to pass a safety inspection.
Liam needs assistance fixing his vehicle and replacing some tools.
Eugenia is an elderly woman who had a stroke and became disabled. Her husband is her primary caregiver and their house is cluttered because he is overwhelmed taking care of her.
Some help for house- cleaning would really help them welcome a new season for the holidays.
The Garden Island has been sharing daily stories through Christmas Eve about real people (we don’t use their real names) facing challenges and who would appreciate a little help through The Garden Island/Zonta Christmas Fund.
In the past two years, the fund has raised more than $50,000, and every dollar has gone toward bringing joy to those who otherwise would likely go without anything on Christmas.
This program has been around since the 1980s and is headed up by Dimples Kano, 93.
This year, about 400 families applied for assistance.
Donations to the Christmas Fund are used by Zonta Club members to purchase local gift certificates that are in turn distributed via social service agencies to families in December.
Checks, payable to Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation, can be mailed to P.O. Box 3032, Lihue, HI 96766.
For more information, call Kano at 822-4517.
