Officials at The Garden Island newspaper and Zonta Club of Kauai have again teamed up to try to make the holidays brighter for needy senior citizens, children and families. The Garden Island/Zonta Christmas Fund has been helping Kaua‘i families for
Officials at The Garden Island newspaper and Zonta Club of Kauai have again teamed up to try to make the holidays brighter for needy senior citizens, children and families. The Garden Island/Zonta Christmas Fund has been helping Kaua‘i families for over 30 years. Letters are sent to island agencies such as Easter Seals and the county Agency on Elderly Affairs seeking referrals of clients who are most in need. Last year, the community’s generous donations helped 153 adults and 140 children. This year, even more requests for assistance have been received. The Christmas Fund volunteers use monetary donations to purchase gift certificates and gift cards that are distributed to families and individuals.
Because of the logistical problems in distributing donated items, only monetary donations can be accepted.
New clothes would help boost Nalani’s self-esteem
Nalani is a 37-year-old, mentally challenged woman who suffers from a history of domestic violence, abuse as a child, and depression. Nalani has gone through a lot of pain and suffering in her life, which has made her appreciate the small things in life. She would benefit from some new clothes that would help boost her self-esteem and make her feel good about herself.
June needs new clothes or home furnishings this year
June is a single individual with kidney problems. Being disabled, she is unable to secure regular employment, and must rely on disability insurance and public assistance. She recently moved into a rental unit. June could really use some new clothing or home furnishings for the holidays.
Gifts are out of reach for Sarah, single parent of three children
Sarah is a single parent of three children. She works two part-time jobs and receives some public assistance, but no child support for her children. It’s difficult to make ends meet, and it will be nearly impossible for her to purchase gifts for her kids and extended family this holiday season.
Family needs help making Christmas bright for them
Kate is a 1-year-old girl who lives with her mom and dad. Finding an affordable place to live has been tough for this family, which is currently living with extended family members.
They have to live in a small room, but they do the best they can to make do. Dad works, but earns barely enough to make ends meet.
Kate has been receiving early intervention services, as she was born premature.
The family would appreciate any help that they could get to make their Christmas happier.
Donations may be mailed to The Garden Island/Zonta Christmas Fund, P.O. Box 1120, Kapa‘a, HI 96746. For more information, please contact Dimples Kano at 822-9882.