Many Lokahi recipients are hard working families facing additional challenges.
That's the case for a military wife with two special needs children and a husband overseas.
As you can imagine, being the parent of a special needs child is challenging. Now imagine, having two special needs children and one day finding yourself alone, without the help and support of your spouse.
That's the story of today's Lokahi family.
Mom is overwhelmed. Dad is currently deployed and is expected to return home in April. Mom is doing her best to care for her little girls ages 1 and 2, but admits to being overwhelmed and exhausted.
The one-year-old has gross motor and cognitive delays and must see a physical therapist every other week. The two year old sees a speech and occupational therapist every other week. She has speech and fine motor delays. Both require Mom's constant care and attention.
The family survives on a modest income. And Mom does all she can to help her family save money. A caseworker says mom is currently building a bookshelf and toddler bed. She also does her own minor car repairs. Still, they are just barely making ends meet, and cannot afford Christmas gifts for the girls.
If you'd like to help this family have something to look forward to this Christmas, and support our troops deployed overseas, here is their wish list:
Mom thinks the girls would enjoy a toy kitchen, saying they enjoyed playing with one when they visited another relative's home. The girls also love playing with dolls.
Mom said she would welcome food and diapers. She'd also be thrilled to receive a crib mattress for the bed she's making. A camera to take photos of her growing girls would also be appreciated.
