Ice cream fundraiser returns for terminally, seriously ill keiki

A Dream Come True’s All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream Party is back to benefit terminally and seriously ill keiki on the Big Island.

This fun-filled annual fundraising ice cream party will take place 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 16 at Aunty Sally’s Luau Hale, 799 Piilani St. in Hilo.

There will be live entertainment, health screening, issuing of ID cards and games for keiki, face painting, airbrush tattoo painting and lucky number drawings throughout the party. All the ice cream you can eat is included with admission. Hot dogs, pizza and shave ice also will be available for purchase.

A total of 83 Big Island terminally and seriously ill keiki were granted their dreams since 1985 by the nonprofit A Dream Come True. Keiki between the ages of 4 and 17 have been assisted with having their dreams met — whether it was to assist the family with critical needs or to take a trip to Disney World.

Serving as honorary medical director for the party is Dr. Frederick Nitta, a devoted supporter of ADCT. Founded in 1985 by Hawaii County fire personnel Nelson Tsuji and Lawrence Balberde, ADCT is dependent on businesses, community organizations and individual donors for its funding.

“Our Fire Department sees firsthand how seriously ill children can benefit from a dream to uplift their spirits,” said Fire Chief Darren Rosario. “We are asking for your help in realizing a dream come true for our keiki in need.”

Major sponsors of this year’s party are KTA Super Stores, Pint-Size Corp. and Meadow Gold. Tickets are on sale for $10; admission is free for ages 3 and younger.

For tickets or more information, call Jean Miyamoto at 430-9815 or email adct.bigisland@gmail.com. Tickets also can be purchased from various community organizations and will be available at the door.

For additional information, call coordinator Susan Segawa at 936-8037.