Money raised for homeless shelter
By James Gonser Bruce Asato | The Honolulu Advertiser
Dozens of volunteers stationed themselves at intersections from Kailua to Sand Island to downtown yesterday to celebrate "Christmas in July."
The event was a fundraiser for the River of Life Mission, a Christian-based group that provides free services for homeless and needy people.
Wearing red T-shirts and Santa caps, volunteers held signs to identify their cause and approached vehicles and pedestrians with fishing nets seeking donations. The goal was to raise $40,000 for a new women's residential shelter at the group's Pauahi Street mission.
Kaimuki resident Iris Taniguchi stood at the corner of Bishop and South King streets downtown collecting donations and wishing generous patrons a merry Christmas.
"We just want to help the homeless get back on their feet again," Taniguchi said. "River of Life has a very supportive mission."
Her daughter, Kristi Taniguchi, 19, has volunteered for the River of Life before with other members of the New Life church during the real holiday season helping to cook, package and serve meals.
"My mom got me up to help today," Kristi said. "It didn't feel good at 6 in the morning, but now that I'm out here it's worth it."
Mike Jones walked by on the two on his way to a meeting and dropped a $20 bill into Kristi's net.
"It is a great cause," said Jones, who has seen homeless people living in the area. "Whatever I can do to help out a little bit. I know every dollar helps."
With only $3 in her wallet, Hayley Peters, dropped $1 into the net.
Peters, a shy 12-year-old, said she wanted to help, too.
River of Life serves hot meals every day and provides family food boxes, clothing, health and legal assistance, recovery and other rehabilitation programs.
The Rev. Bob Marchant, River of Life executive director, said the idea for the event came from a group of local radio stations and was presented to him just 10 days ago. He said the timing was right and the group quickly organized volunteers and came up with the holiday costumes.
"We're getting ready to start a residential program for women," Marchant said. "We are also improving our kitchen for some culinary training for our job training program."
Marchant said the "Christmas in July" theme is meant to remind people that the spirit of giving and helping those less fortunate should to be year 'round.
"That is why we chose July 25," he said.
To volunteer or get more information, call 524-7656 or see www.riveroflifemission.org.
Advertiser Urban Honolulu Writer
Iris Taniguchi of Kaimuki collected contributions at King and Bishop streets for River of Life's Christmas in July fundraising program. It was part of an effort to raise $40,000 for a new women's shelter. In the back is Taniguchi's daughter, Kristi, 19, who also took part.
