This holiday season, the Christmas Fund is providing essential support to families and individuals facing significant challenges on the island of Kauai. Through December 24, The Garden Island highlights stories of those who would greatly benefit from community assistance, showcasing the spirit of giving during this festive time.
The Christmas Fund, organized by the Zonta Club of Kauai, leverages donations to acquire gift certificates. These certificates are distributed to families and individuals through local social-service agencies, ensuring that help reaches those in need effectively.
Personal Stories of Resilience and Community Support
Among those featured is Mark, who has lived on Kauai for most of his life. Currently facing homelessness and navigating life in a wheelchair, Mark has recently entered a homeless program. His friendly demeanor has garnered support from the community at Kapaa Beach Park, where he hopes to find safety and stability as he works toward permanent housing.
Frankie and Tatiana have endured homelessness for over five years, raising their two daughters, aged 11 and 15, during this time. While Tatiana holds a full-time job, Frankie is unable to work due to physical disabilities but receives a fixed income through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). After their hard work in a transitional shelter, the family has recently moved into low-income housing but still seeks support to provide for their daughters and build a brighter future.
Tina, another beneficiary, has just settled into low-income housing. She loves to cook but left her kitchen appliances behind when moving. Providing Tina with new cooking equipment would allow her to prepare meals and foster a sense of home in her new environment.
Brad, a lifelong resident of Kauai, has faced difficulties affording independent living as he aged. After experiencing homelessness, he recently entered the Mana’olana Emergency Shelter. Brad is actively seeking employment and aims to secure permanent housing soon.
Rose Bella has spent many years on Kauai, working in various medical offices. After suffering a Traumatic Brain Injury two years ago, she has struggled with memory and attention. Despite these challenges, Rose has shown remarkable resilience, transitioning from living in her car to entering a supportive homeless program. With the assistance of her caseworker, she is now working towards stable, independent living.
Christine, an elderly resident in public housing, is known for her friendly nature. She actively participates in senior group activities and has a passion for sewing. Christine is preparing for an upcoming craft fair and would benefit from sewing materials to create blankets for the event.
Vicky is a single mother employed full-time in a warehouse. She and her adult daughter, Hailey, who faces physical disabilities, are currently living in a transitional shelter. Both have encountered numerous challenges before entering the program. With the support of casework, they are working towards obtaining low-income housing and establishing stability.
How to Contribute to the Christmas Fund
Each donation to the Christmas Fund is meticulously accounted for, with no administrative costs, ensuring that funds directly enhance the lives of those in need through Christmas presents and groceries. Individuals or groups interested in supporting this initiative can hold fundraisers, and those who donate $200 or more will have their pictures published in The Garden Island.
Donations can be made through the website at https://zonta.vbotickets.com/donations/7678 or by sending checks payable to the Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation, P.O. Box 3032, Lihue, HI 96766. This holiday season, every contribution makes a difference in the lives of Kauai’s most vulnerable residents.
