Just a year ago, Deanna Tamura was homeless on the beach, high on crystal methamphetamine and separated from her two children.

It took her third baby — Chazzarae — to force Tamura to quit and straighten up her life. Today, the 27-year-old is clean and has a full-time job at 7-Eleven. Her youngest is 9 months old, healthy and happy. Her older children, ages 2 and 5, are living with Tamura's mother on Maui.

And now, Tamura is expecting twins.

The young mother said she barely has enough money for her rent at Weinberg Village Waimanalo and household needs. She is asking for diapers, a stroller for twins, a playpen, car seats and other baby-related items.

Her twins are due in May, and she is worried about childcare for them. "I have to maintain my job," she said. "I'm worried about a baby sitter."

Tamura says she would also like a few items for Chazzarae, along with her older children. She sees them every few months on Maui.

She said she would love to surprise them with some toys or clothes on her next visit. "Receiving these items will help me so much," Tamura said.

While she is pregnant with her twins, Tamura is trying to save up as much money as she can. But most months, all of her paycheck flies out the door.

She said her mother and father are financially stable and so have been able to provide Tamura's older children with a better lifestyle.

Tamura lost custody of her kids while she was high and on the beach, and she said she is trying to make up for lost time as best she can.

"I'd greatly appreciate any and all items our family receives," she said.

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