Single mom to deploy

The Garden Island newspaper and Zonta Club of Kauai have again teamed up to try to make the holidays brighter for needy island 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.

Mom and daughter face separation this season

Kelly is a single mother struggling to provide for her daughter, Shana (age 1). Kelly was seeking employment when she was called to active duty with the Hawaii Army National Guard in September. Kelly will be able to spend a short time with her daughter during the holiday season before returning to duty. Although there is no material item to make up for the absence of her mother, food items and clothing would not only benefit Shana, but will help decrease some of the financial burden for family members who are caring for her.

Mike needs help with food and personal items

Mike lives alone in a one-bedroom apartment, and is in poor health. He suffers from depression and the holiday season will be very rough for him since he has no immediate family in Hawai‘i. He lives on a very tight budget, and could use some canned foods and other basic toiletry items.

Donations can be mailed to the Garden Island/Zonta Christmas Fund, P.O. Box 1120, Kapa‘a, HI 96746. For more information, contact Dimples Kano at 822-9882.