Life for Josie, right now, is difficult.
She lives with her daughter, which is good. What’s not good is how age is taking its toll. She is losing her memory, is unsteady on her feet and can’t be left alone. Josie has a fixed income and medical bills that are starting to pile up. Christmas, though, gives her hope. She would love a new blouse or, really, any new clothing to wear for the holidays.
Roy is in an equally challenging situation.
He lives in a care home with no immediate family on-island. Most of his income goes to pay for his care home, so he has little for Christmas. He loves to read and would like a book or a magazine to brighten the holidays.
The Garden Island/Zonta Club of Kauai Christmas Fund drive is underway, and it helps these folks. This holiday season, more than 700 requests for help have come in from families and individuals.
Through Christmas Eve, The Garden Island will share stories about those facing challenges (we don’t use their real names).
Donations are used by Zonta Club members to purchase gift certificates that are distributed through social-service agencies.
In a big boost, the Hawaii Community Foundation Kauai office reported that a donor has pledged up to $5,000 to match donations of at least $150.
In the last three years, the fund has raised about $80,000.
If you hold a fundraiser for the Christmas Fund, let us know and we’ll spread the word. If you make a donation, we’ll be glad to publish your photo in the paper.
Donations may be made to: The Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation, P.O. Box, 3032, Lihue, 96766, or by way of their website: zonta-kauai.org.
