Christmas came early for nearly 100 Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home residents Thursday who received individual presents from staff and volunteers as part of the home’s annual Christmas program.
The celebration kicked off with members of Thy Word Ministries Hilo church leading carols and a hula performance. Frosty the Snowman and Hawaiian Santa, wearing board shorts and a hand-woven hat, made an appearance shortly after and helped distribute presents.
The gathering was designed to give each resident a chance to celebrate the holiday season, particularly those who might not have loved ones visiting for the holiday itself, said activities assistant Kamuela Kahalehili.
Each resident received an individual present donated and collected by Yukio Okutsu staff and local veterans organizations.
Presents included items such as blankets, hats and clothing.
“Some of them don’t have families or families who come (visit for Christmas) so this way, everybody gets a present,” Kahalehili said.
“It’s really a surprise to have this celebration for us,” said Yukio Okutsu resident Wallace Hirai, 88, as he shook his hand-wrapped present carefully. “I didn’t expect it. And of course we appreciate it.”
Resident Patrick Purgatorio, 73, said he also was grateful for the celebration.
“A lot of people here don’t have family who come visit,” Purgatorio said. “So, it’s nice to have a program that gives them joy for Christmas.
“Without all these people here, this place would be boring. Everyone is really thankful they’re here.”
Email Kirsten Johnson at kjohnson@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
This is a great story about reaching out to those who have served our country and I like the Hawaiian spin on Santa. We need more reporting and stories like this to inspire our communities. Great piece and great writing.