LIHU‘E — Not so many years ago, images of rows of shiny new bicycles and an overabundance of other new toys were seen during an annual Christmas party for needy Kaua‘i keiki. Luis Soltren of Soltren Construction has coordinated the
LIHU‘E — Not so many years ago, images of rows of shiny new bicycles and an overabundance of other new toys were seen during an annual Christmas party for needy Kaua‘i keiki.
Luis Soltren of Soltren Construction has coordinated the event for years, and noticed a significant decrease in community donations last year.
This year, things are really “tight,” he said.
Still, the party will go on, and beneficiaries are children affiliated with the Hale ‘Opio programs, said Soltren.
He hopes that, with support from the community, presents can be secured for all the children expected to attend.
Already, “this year’s party for Kaua‘i’s precious but unfortunate children is made possible with the generous help of Kuhio Motors, Honsador Lumber, Dr. Allen Johnson, Pizza Hut, Big KMart, Dickie Chang, Ron Wiley (for getting the word out), Bruce Smalling, Janet Miller, Tommy Tokioka and band, Costco, Bill Henning and many other friends and supporters,” Soltren said.
In an ideal home, Christmas might be a time of creating wonderful new memories, and revisiting old memories, a time when family gathers together and shares their love for each other, he said.
“But what of the children who are left without their family, children separated from their siblings?” he asked.
“Christmas can also be a time of stress and emotional and financial hardship, a time when some families struggle just to survive,” he said.
“Remembering the reason for the season, at least for this one evening, we will transport these children to a place of love, a place where people care enough to give them the happy memories to last a lifetime,” he said.
“For one magical evening, they will enjoy music and laughter and joy. It is our prayer that they will leave with a seed of hope planted in their hearts and the knowledge that we care about them,” he said.
“This year I got a call from Kari Villabrille asking me if I want to have the party at the Aston Kaua‘i Beach at Makaiwa,” Soltren said. “Yes,” said Soltren.
Those wishing to make monetary donations to the effort may call Soltren, 639-4836, or Rosie Carrillo of the Children’s Justice Center, 651-2565. To donate to Hale ‘Opio, call Executive Director Mary Navarro, 245-2873.
