Tom Stafford is always helping others. It makes his heart happy to help those who are less fortunate than he or less mobile than he.
At the age of 78 he is facing some health issues of his own, but knows there are so many more who are in worse health than he is. One of his greatest joys is assisting other elderly residents who live in his senior housing complex.
Since he is still able to drive, he is happy to help with shopping, errands and transporting people to and from. Due to high gas prices, Tom has had to limit the amount of assistance he can offer. Any help with purchasing gas would certainly make him happy.
Through Christmas Eve, The Garden Island will share daily, front-page stories about families and individuals (we don’t use their real names) facing challenges and who would appreciate a little help.
The Christmas Fund is an avenue for everyone to provide that assistance. Donations are used by Zonta Club members to purchase gift certificates that are in turn distributed to families and individuals through social-service agencies.
Each donation is accounted for and recorded. There are no administrative costs involved, and money goes directly to provide for those in need of Christmas presents and groceries.
If you hold a fundraiser for the Christmas Fund, let us know and we’ll spread the word. Anyone making a donation of $200 or more can have their picture published in TGI.
Donations may be made by way of the website, Zonta-Kaua‘i.org, or checks can be made payable to The Zonta Club of Kaua‘i Foundation, P.O. Box 3032, Lihu‘e, HI 96766.
• Francis is an elderly woman, who was physically abused by her daughter. She is trying to get all her belongings and find housing. She enjoys knitting and reading.
• Brandon fled from a very abusive marriage of nine years. He was emotionally and financially abused. He is planning on moving to a different island. He enjoys the mountains and the beach.
Any assistance this holiday season would be greatly appreciated.
• Keoki, 8, and Kekoa, 6, are two young boys residing with their aunt and uncle. They both have experienced extensive hardships in their short lives, including severe neglect and abuse by their father.
Both of their biological parents are addicted to illegal substances and are no longer in their lives. Keoki and Kekoa are doing well since living with their aunt and uncle.
They would be grateful for Legos and superheroes, and their aunt and uncle would also be grateful so they can have a break from entertaining these two very active boys.
