LIHU‘E — Palikonu might have limited speech, but he has the biggest heart.
At 21 years old, he doesn’t let his intellectual challenge define him and works hard to help others. Palikonu enjoys helping in the kitchen by doing the dishes and eagerly waits his turn to mix or stir any meal that’s cooking.
Palikonu has a passion for gaming and taking quiet time on his treasured iPad. He also practices his writing skills and works at letters and numbers. Palikonu’s single mom works long hours at the local grocery.
He never asks for anything, but really would appreciate a little handheld gaming device or holiday treats that he would share with his mom and aunties.
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.
w Warren is a single dad with an 18-month-old daughter who recently loss the mother of his child. He is on a fixed income and recently found housing. It has been a struggle for him to take care of his daughter and mourn a loss. This season, he could really use some help to make this a good holiday for his daughter.
w Sharon is a single woman who is recovering from being homeless and recently got a job. With the help of caseworker, Sharon continues to flourish in her new life. Sharon is hopeful that this will be a new chapter in her life as she makes this transition. This year, this household would appreciate household, cleaning and laundry supplies, and gift cards for food. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
