His parents work hard to support Benny and his siblings. Benny wants toys for Christmas, and his parents would appreciate any help this holiday season.
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.
• Von Miller is a male with a disability. To his credit, he is employed part time and is a contributing member of society. Von is on a tight budget, and he would like to have new clothes and shoes. He would appreciate any help this holiday season.
• Marci is a 15-year-old girl with autism and intellectual disabilities. She is a fun-loving teenager who loves reading books, watching TV and movies and Jojo Siwa.
Marci’s favorite store is Target. She enjoys shopping for clothes, books, movies and games. She currently lives with a foster family, and they do the best to provide her with all that they can, but anything extra for the holiday season would brighten Marci’s day.
• Meleana is developmentally, as well as physically challenged. She is also schizophrenic. She has been kept at arm’s length by her family, due to a history of outbursts and aggression. She can be the most caring and giving friend and only becomes “verbally aggressive” out of frustration due to her limited mobility.
Her left arm and leg don’t always cooperate with her quick thinking, and that’s when frustration sets in. Her desire to be with her loved ones sometimes causes her to suffer depression, and she sheds lots of tears.
Being on her own is financially difficult, and Meleana could use new clothing and food items so that she can share with her family during the holidays. Meleana would be so grateful to have a turkey to share with her family, as she loves the rare holiday visits.
• Bricen is a young adult who lives at home with his family. Bricen has an intellectual disability. Bricen enjoys living the simple Kaua‘i life. Bricen loves fishing, playing music (drums) and yard work. Bricen could use a gift card to purchase new clothings and tools.
• Bobby has an intellectual disability. Bobby would appreciate new clothing, toys to build and play with, and easy-to-follow cook books. He would appreciate any help this holiday season.
• Captain Marvel is a 28-year-old female with a mild intellectual disability and diabetes. She resides with a caregiver and her family in Lihu‘e. Ms. Marvel enjoys listening to music and surfing the internet.
Her goal is to one day live independently. She has personal assistance to support her healthy living. The request is for any financial assistance to keep supporting her healthy living of exercising regularly at a gym.
• Moku Mysterio is a 24-year-old male who lives in Hanama‘ulu with his mother and stepfather. Moku is disabled and requires someone to be with him at all times. He has an extended family that helps with taking care of Moku. Any funding assistance to support his family with everyday expenses would be most appreciated.
• Sasha lives with her daughter, who is her caregiver. Sasha exudes warmth and kindness, and often speaks of the love of her life — her husband. She provides joy and comfort to many of the clients, and will even share a special prayer before meals.
All of Sasha’s fixed income goes toward medications and toiletries, with little to nothing left for other needs. With additional support resources, she would be able to purchase a much-needed rollator walker, a new pair of nonslip shoes and a warm jacket, which is sure to add cheer to her holiday season.
