Staff at The Garden Island newspaper and members of the Zonta Club of Kauai are again teaming up this year, and asking the community to help make the holidays happier for less-fortunate residents through the Zonta/The Garden Island Christmas Fund.
Staff at The Garden Island newspaper and members of the Zonta Club of Kauai are again teaming up this year, and asking the community to help make the holidays happier for less-fortunate residents through the Zonta/The Garden Island Christmas Fund.
Most people look forward each year to the merriment and cheer of the holiday season, but there are far too many residents who barely make ends meet every day. From now through tomorrow, Christmas Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24, 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. Gift certificates and used or new items, while appreciated, should not be submitted.
Checks should be written to Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation 501(c)3. Donations are tax-deductible, and should be mailed to Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation, c/o Joy Miura Koerte, P.O. Box 3996, Lihu’e, HI 96766.
For more information, please contact Joy at 245-3677.
Toys, interactive books are family’s request
Carl is 17 months old, and was born three months premature. He requires therapy services from Easter Seals’ Early Intervention Program due to his developmental delays.
Carl has severe asthma, and has had numerous emergency room visits. Carl’s father attended technical training at Kaua’i Community College, and now has a job. His mother is caring for family members who have life-threatening diseases. Members of this family would appreciate educational toys or interactive books for Carl.
Jessica would love a present for baby
Jessica is a 26-year-old single mother who has been displaced, and is currently homeless with her 10-month-old daughter. A newcomer to the island, Jessica’s life and marriage were torn apart by her abusive husband.
Without any family here to help, members of some community agencies are assisting Jessica with replacing her work permit, birth certificate and Social Security card, all of which were intentionally destroyed. In the meantime, she is engaging in pre-employment preparations and options for child care when she acquires a job while trying to provide a safe and positive environment for her baby.
Clothing would help Jessica in her job search. However, since it is her daughter’s first Christmas, Jessica would be so happy to be able to give her baby a present.
