Local Families Seek Help This Holiday Season Through Christmas Fund

As the holiday season approaches, the Christmas Fund aims to support local families facing unexpected challenges. This initiative, highlighted on Giving Tuesday, encourages communities to give back by assisting those in need. The fund, administered by the Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation, collects donations to purchase gift certificates distributed through social service agencies, ensuring that families receive much-needed assistance during the holidays.

Challenges Faced by Local Families

Throughout December, The Garden Island will feature stories of families who could greatly benefit from additional support. The first highlighted family is the King family, consisting of two parents and their four children, ranging from preschool to high school age. Both parents work full-time and are actively involved in their community, instilling the values of service in their children. Unfortunately, they recently lost their long-term home, and one parent requires surgery that will keep them out of work for six weeks just as the holiday season begins. This family would appreciate any help they can receive.

Another story is that of Mrs. Rogers, who has been caring for her two grandchildren for the past ten years after their parents were unable to do so. Following the death of her husband, she has taken on the role of sole caregiver. Despite her efforts to provide a stable home and support her grandchildren’s education and extracurricular activities, Mrs. Rogers is finding it increasingly difficult to manage on her own. A little extra help this holiday season would mean a great deal to her and her family.

One single mother currently faces homelessness while caring for her three-month-old baby. She is working on housing applications but requires hygiene supplies, diapers, wipes, formula, and other essentials. Additionally, she is looking for employment and would benefit from appropriate clothing for job interviews as well as toys for her older children during the holidays.

Larias Ronald, a single mother of four, has also encountered significant challenges. After complications during childbirth, she has been unable to work and struggles to provide for her children. The family needs holiday items, including clothing and toys, to help them celebrate the season they once enjoyed. Larias would appreciate any support that can be offered to her during this difficult time.

How to Contribute

Every donation made to the Christmas Fund is accounted for, with no administrative costs involved, ensuring that all contributions go directly to those in need. Individuals interested in supporting the fund can do so through various means, including monetary donations, volunteering time, or raising awareness through social media.

Those who wish to donate can do so via the Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation’s website at https://zonta.vbotickets.com/donations/7678, or by sending checks made payable to the Zonta Club of Kauai Foundation, P.O. Box 3032, Lihue, HI 96766. Donations of $200 or more will be acknowledged with a picture published in The Garden Island.

As the community comes together to support these families, the spirit of the holiday season shines through. Every contribution, regardless of size, makes a difference in the lives of those facing hardship.