WAIMEA — Pat Pablo of the West Kaua‘i United Methodist Church said no matter where you are, Santa will find you.
Pablo was among the small group of the WKUMC members and friends who showed up on Wednesday at the Lucy Wright Park with three carloads of Christmas gifts and other supplies needed by the campers in the park located at the mouth of the Waimea River.
“The community was very generous,” Pablo said. “The Lucy Wright Park residents needed things, and the church’s members and friends in the community came through. We had contributions from church members, office mates, and people in the community who wanted to share the Christmas spirit during these difficult times.”
WKUMC Pastor Nafetalai Teaupa led the group of Christmas revelers in a lively preprayer ritual to set the stage for the distribution of presents, a sufficient amount for everyone living in the park, and then some.
Additionally, Pablo fetched a container out of her car containing batteries, the item drawing its own crowd.
“On the campers’ wishlist were tarps and batteries,” said Pablo, who visits the beach park at least once a month with food. “We have both. Times are tough right now for everybody. We just want them to know that there are people who love them.”
Pablo, who along with her sisters form the Olokele Sugar Babes care group, said the campers have asked her if she takes care of the Russian Fort, or other places houseless individuals frequent.
“No,” she said. “I have a hard enough time trying to care for this small area. I can’t handle anything more. There are other groups in the community who care for the other sites.”
Following a quick distribution of all the residents, including keiki, Pablo adjourned to her car for gifts for her family.
“Merry Christmas,” she said. “Thank you for caring.”
