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 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.
Finances are tough for loving family
Victoria and David are two devoted, caring parents whose love extends beyond their own family. They have eight children of their own, ranging in age from 2 to 16, and are also foster parents to four children ranging in age from 1 to 4. They will be adding a new member of the family very soon, as Victoria is expecting.
Victoria and David are very dedicated to their family, and do everything they can to make sure all their children are provided for, but having such a large family proves financially difficult. The couple has recently been able to purchase a home, and would greatly benefit from a large water heater.
Presently, they only have a 40- gallon water heater for all 14 of them, and need one that would be suitable for their household size. Small gifts for their children would also make their holiday season brighter.
Sheila needs help keeping life on track
Sheila is a 48-year-old female who is currently homeless. She always has a smile on her face that portrays her consistent, positive attitude. After raising her children, Sheila found herself caught in the sticky web drugs.
She is a recovering ice addict who has remained sober for over a year now, but struggles to find office work and is thus unable to pay for rent.
Sheila is diligent at working on her typing skills in order to meet requirements of most office jobs. She desires to have job so she can obtain housing.
Frequently isolated, Sheila expresses her longing to socialize with other people. Gas and clothing would help Sheila in her job-seeking attempts, while food is always a necessity.