Zonta drive aims to brighten holidays

LIHU‘E — The Garden Island newspaper and the Zonta Club of Kaua‘i are teaming up again this year and asking the community to help make the holidays happier for less-fortunate residents through The Garden Island/Zonta Christmas Fund.

From now through Christmas Eve, The Garden Island will share stories of families who could use a little holiday cheer along with an appeal for monetary donations of any size.

The names have been changed to protect their privacy. Funds raised will be distributed to needy families by Zonta Club members, who purchase gift certificates at appropriate businesses to help make these simple wishes come true.

Because of logistical limitations, only monetary donations can be accepted. Checks made payable to Zonta Club of Kaua‘i Foundation can be mailed to P.O. Box 3032, Lihu‘e, HI 96766. For more information, call Yoshiko “Dimples” Kano, chair of The Garden Island/Zonta Christmas Fund Committee, 822-9882.

Single parent seeks help this season

Lani is a single parent going to Kaua‘i Community College to enter the nursing program. She receives food stamps and works as a caregiver at night. She receives no child support as her ex-boyfriend is incarcerated. A little something extra for Christmas for herself and her two boys, Blake, 7, and Damien, 4, would be nice. (A1)

Gifts appreciated

Shirley, 19, is a young girl who lives with her parents. She tried to find a job but it is difficult with only a high-school diploma. Something special for her for Christmas would be great! (A2)

Brighten the holidays for this small family

Mabel, 56, and Mark, 30, live together (mother and son). Mabel is disabled, receives food stamps and disability insurance. Mark has a severe ailment and is unable to work. Christmas would be better for this family with a little extra something. (A3)