Community Christmas Fund Supports Local Families in Need

The Christmas Fund in Kauai aims to assist families and individuals facing hardships this holiday season. Initiated by the Zonta Club, the fund collects donations to purchase gift certificates, which are then distributed through local social-service agencies. As part of this initiative, daily stories are shared about various community members who would benefit from support.

Spotlight on Individuals in Need

Among those featured is Betty, a woman who has triumphed over significant challenges, including homelessness and addiction. After securing stable housing earlier this year, she is now employed full-time and is eager to reconnect with her passion for baking. To aid her journey of recovery, Betty is seeking baking pans and cookware, tools that would allow her to express creativity and contribute to her well-being.

Billy Echo, a 21-year-old residing in Kapaa, faces daily challenges due to his intellectual disability and mobility issues. With constant supervision required due to seizures, Billy’s family, who moved from the Marshall Islands to Kauai when he was just 11, is seeking assistance with daily living expenses. Contributions would help support both him and his extended family during this festive season.

Another featured individual, Malu Soon, 30, lives independently with a caregiver while managing autism and nutrition concerns. His family is requesting help with living expenses to ease the financial burden they face in supporting his independence.

Additional Community Stories

The fund also highlights the story of Alex, an elderly man who spent nearly five years living on the streets. Recently, he secured affordable housing, but a limited budget leaves little room for necessities. Gift cards would enable Alex to purchase essential personal items, improving his comfort in his new home.

Young parents Christopher and Catelyn, along with their son Chad, recently achieved the milestone of permanent housing. As they establish their new home, they face financial pressures that hinder their ability to purchase necessary household items. Their requests include kitchen supplies, blankets, and a few toys for Chad to help make their house feel like a home.

For the family of three adults—Daniel, David, and Divina—financial strain from medical bills has created challenges in securing stable housing. They are seeking gift cards to assist with essential needs such as food and laundry supplies.

Another individual, Eddie, recently faced significant hardship after losing his father, who was his main provider. Despite quickly securing housing with community support, he is in need of household items to aid his transition. Contributions of kitchen supplies, bedding, and cleaning items would greatly assist him during this time.

Gerald, a hardworking gentleman, struggles to make ends meet while covering his rent. He would benefit from gift cards for food and household supplies, providing much-needed relief as he continues to strive for self-sufficiency.

Lastly, Haven, a single woman who has shown remarkable resilience, recently secured housing after a challenging period. Despite her achievements, she faces difficulties managing her limited resources. Support in the form of colorful bedding and curtains, along with gift cards for food and gas, would help her create a brighter living space and meet essential needs.

Individuals and organizations are encouraged to contribute to the Christmas Fund, ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most. All donations are accounted for, with no administrative costs, meaning every dollar goes directly to the individuals in need of holiday support.

Those wishing to contribute can do so through the website Zonta-Kauai.org or by mailing checks to the Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation, P.O. Box 3032, Lihue, HI 96766. Donations of $200 or more will be acknowledged in the local newspaper, further promoting community engagement in this vital initiative.