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.
• Piper and Phillip are a young family with two children: an 8-year old and a 1-year old. After spending years in overcrowded living conditions, they have recently managed to move out and secure a place for their family. As they adjust to their new home, they continue to face financial challenges due to relying on a single income. To help meet their basic needs and support their children’s development, Piper and Phillip would benefit from gift cards for food and gas. Additionally, baby clothes and toys would be especially helpful for their infant, while remote control cars and LEGO sets would bring joy to their older child.
• Quinn is an elderly man and a retired veteran who has faced considerable difficulties in establishing a stable life after his military service. In recent years, he has been able to secure housing but continues to struggle financially and is just managing to cover his basic expenses. This year, Quinn would greatly appreciate receiving gift cards for food, which would help him address his essential needs and alleviate some of his ongoing financial challenges.
• Liam is a single man who is actively working to rebuild his life. He is diligent in his efforts to keep his expenses as low as possible, seeking out ways to manage his finances responsibly. Despite his determination and resourcefulness, Liam continues to face financial challenges. Support in the form of gift cards for food and gas would greatly assist him, enabling him to meet his basic needs and maintain reliable transportation to and from work.
• Robbie is an elderly man who finds joy in giving back to his community. Despite his active involvement, he faces challenges with daily living chores and manages his expenses on a fixed income. One of Robbie’s favorite pastimes is riding his bike, which brings him both pleasure and independence. To continue enjoying this activity, Robbie would benefit from a new bike chain and tires. Additionally, gift cards for household supplies would greatly assist him in managing his everyday needs
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-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