LIHU‘E — Ten-year-old Union lives with her parents and siblings in Lihu‘e and attends Wilcox Elementary School.
Wheelchair-bound, Union has a direct service worker who helps her with her goals for increased independence and mobility.
Any assistance to ensure Union has a safe home environment with accessible and appropriate equipment would be appreciated this holiday season.
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, Lihu‘e, HI 96766.
• Helena is 93 years young and lives with her daughter and grandson, who are her primary caregivers.
Helena suffers from dementia but truly enjoys participating in daily activities and talking story with peers.
She often expresses empathy and endearing concern for the well-being of those around her and enjoys singing and sharing her beautiful voice through Hawaiian songs and music.
Due to the pandemic, Helena’s caregivers have experienced adversity and are therefore unable to subsidize her needs in addition to their own. Unfortunately, her fixed income barely covers critical needs such as food, medications and clothing. It would be greatly appreciated and beneficial for Helena to have warm clothing and covered non-skid shoes, especially during the cold winter season.
• Rayna is 84 and lives alone, but family and caregivers check in with her daily.
Although she suffered a stroke which left her unable to use the left side of her body and bound to a wheelchair, Rayna always expresses an attitude of gratitude. She often shares positive accolades with other clients and gets into the spirit of holidays and activities, encouraging peers to get involved.
Since her stroke, she has not been able to work, which has significantly impacted her already limited and fixed income.
Despite these challenges, Rayna sees it only as a minor setback and remains positive. She is a loving, happy person that is a joy to be around.
The COVID pandemic has further exacerbated the challenge of resources for her basic medical and personal needs. Rayna could use a walker, warm clothing, and resources to purchase toiletries. Although she has always made the most with her limited resources, she would be extremely happy and appreciative of the support.
