Art supplies would help Nohea express herself

In Nohea’s short 10 years of life, she has experienced a multitude of hardships, including homelessness, sexual abuse and exposure to domestic violence. In addition to these difficult types of victimizations, Nohea also has developmental, speech delay and learning disabilities. She has a difficult time expressing herself.

Recently, she and her two younger siblings were taken into protective custody due to continued exposure to domestic violence and neglect. Unfortunately, the three siblings were unable to stay together and are in different foster homes.

Nohea is a sweet, caring young girl who loves to spend time outdoors and express herself through art. This Christmas, Nohea would love art supplies and toys to play with.

Through Christmas Eve, The Garden Island will share daily, front-page stories about families (we don’t use their real names) facing challenges and who would appreciate a little help.

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.

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 $150 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 Kaua‘i Foundation, P.O. Box 3032, Lihue, HI 96766.

• Gary is a proud military veteran who suffers from dementia and osteoporosis. He lives with his son, who is his primary caregiver. Because he tends to be unsteady on his feet, he must use a walker to safely move around. However, he still enjoys sitting exercises, singing songs and engaging in assisted floor games. His limited income barely covers the cost of his food and household necessities, so he does not have much to spare on other personal items. Gary is in need of some warm clothing, socks and shoes especially for the winter season.

• Pua, 71 years old, lives with her sister Pikake, 72 years old. Pua is diabetic, has kidney failure, heart issues and attends dialysis. She is unable to live on her own or care for herself. Pua was living with her brother Gary, but then moved in with her sister Pikake. Pikake caregives for her son Puna, 42 years old, an amputee, and cares for his two children, daughter lani (5 years old) and son Raven (3 years old). She also legally adopted her twin grandsons, Kalai and Kane (13 years old). She has had them since they were babies. Their dad (her son) is lost somewhere. She had to fly to Long Beach, California, and bring them to Kaua‘i. Both boys where drug babies and have ADHD. Son Puna tries to get work when he can. Her income is from her retirement. The family would appreciate any assistance.