New jacket, shoes would bring smile to cancer survivor

Emma is a cancer survivor, and also suffers from diabetes and the early stages of dementia. She lives with her son, who is her caregiver. Her limited fixed income is used primarily to cover the costs of her various medications, hospital bills and food, with little to no income left to purchase other much-needed personal items. She is able to stand for very short periods of time and has an unsteady gait. Therefore, she uses a walker to aid with mobility.

Emma has a positive disposition, and enjoys singing, art activities and sorting beads. When she smiles it can light up a room. A new jacket, shoes and socks would put a smile on Emma’s face for the holidays.

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 and mailed to The Zonta Club of Kaua‘i Foundation, P.O. Box 3032, Lihu‘e, HI 96766.

• Moani is a 16-year-old girl. Experiencing abuse by her mother’s boyfriend in her early childhood, Moani also experienced homelessness, exposure to domestic violence and neglect. This year, Moani and her brother were abandoned and entered foster care. Unfortunately, the siblings were unable to remain together. This has been particularly difficult, as the siblings are very close. Moani is a caring teen who loves to spend time with her brother and her friends. This Christmas, she would love to buy herself some new clothes.

• Wilma is a single mom who has been transient for at least a year. Wilma keeps to herself and takes care of her daughter. They have been looking for a home so Wendy will have a safe and stable place to grow. Wilma has· been having a difficult time finding housing in her price range. Once she connected with services, they were able to find her an affordable, safe and stable place to be. Due to COVID-19, funds have been tight, as Wilma is not working as much as she was prior to the pandemic. Wilma is asking for assistance with household items such as pots, pans, utensils, towels toiletries, linens and curtains. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.