Through Christmas Eve, The Garden Island will share daily, front-page stories about families and individuals (we don’t use their real names), who are facing challenges and would appreciate a little help this holiday season.
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.
The following are some stories we would like to share with our readers.
• Kanani is a woman who has faced considerable adversity, including periods of homelessness and challenges with addiction. Despite these obstacles, she has demonstrated remarkable determination and perseverance in her efforts to maintain sobriety and achieve a more stable life. Earlier this year, Kanani accomplished an important milestone by securing a place to live, marking a significant step in her journey toward recovery and independence. As she continues to rebuild her life, Kanani would greatly appreciate gift cards for food and household items. Such support would help her meet essential needs and contribute to her ongoing progress toward stability. Kanani remains genuinely grateful for any assistance provided during this season of transition.
• Kalen is a devoted single father to his young daughter, Rosie. Although English is his second language, Kalen does his utmost to provide for Rosie, facing challenges with communication that have sometimes made it difficult for him to maintain steady employment. Despite these hurdles, he has recently secured a job where he feels more stable and is gradually regaining his footing. This year, Kalen is seeking assistance with food and gas for his vehicle, which would help him continue supporting his family as he works toward greater stability. For Rosie, he hopes to receive items such as nail polish and dolls, which would bring her joy during this season. Kalen is deeply appreciative of any generosity extended to him and his daughter.
• Rochelle is a dedicated single mother raising three children — Nick, Rob and Khloe. She manages the responsibilities of providing for her family with the valuable support of her sister, Sharon, who takes care of the children while Rochelle is at work. Despite her hard work, Rochelle finds it challenging to support a large family with only one income. During this season, Rochelle would be especially grateful for assistance with gifts for her children. Nick would appreciate shoes and clothes, Rob would enjoy remote-controlled cars or Legos, and Khloe would love dolls or coloring books. Sharon, who helps care for the children, would welcome books as a thoughtful gift. Rochelle herself would appreciate receiving gift cards, which would help her meet her family’s needs. Any support provided to Rochelle and her family would be deeply appreciated as they continue to work toward stability and happiness.
• Maria has a family of three — daughter (13) and son (12) — who have escaped a dangerous marriage. They arrived at the Family Violence Shelter seeking safety and peace. Noelani is a quiet, artistic teen who finds comfort in drawing, while Kai is energetic and loves building things. The family is adjusting to their new environment with courage, but the holidays bring emotional and financial strain. They hope for clothing, simple gifts, and a few festive decorations to make their temporary space feel like home. Maria dreams of giving her children a Christmas filled with hope, healing and a sense of normalcy.
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.
Donations may be made by way of the website, Zonta-Kauai.org, or checks can be made payable to The Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation, P.O. Box 3032, Lihue, HI 96766.
Source: The Garden Island
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