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By George F. Lee, Star-Bulletin
Chris Aguiar and son Devon, above, donate his old toys to
the Community Clearing House yesterday.

Modest, good neighbors
spread holiday joy

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By Rosemarie Bernardo
Star-Bulletin

MODESTY prevails for those who donated to the Honolulu Star-Bulletin's Good Neighbor Fund this holiday season.

An American history teacher from Kalaheo High School, who asked to remain anonymous, donated $200.

A rehabilitation program coordinator gave $50.

A Honolulu couple donated $250.

Needy families will benefit from their generosity.

A total of $16,180 was collected in the month-long drive the Star-Bulletin conducted in partnership with the Community Clearing House, a program of Helping Hands Hawaii, and First Hawaiian Bank.

By George F. Lee, Star-Bulletin
Volunteers Jessica Pahia, Jackie Takase, Donna Stephens
and James Roman sort donated clothing.

The money will go to the Community Clearing House's emergency assistance program, which helps families in need year-round, said Olivia Navarro, special projects coordinator.

During the holiday season, material goods such as kitchenware, major appliances, linens, mattresses, and bicycles were donated to the Clearing House.

Last year, the Good Neighbor Fund collected about $17,000 in cash donations. As of yesterday, donations were $1,000 less than last year, but Navarro said people are still sending in donations.

There are 171 agencies that have registered with the Community Clearing House. Agencies such as the state Department of Health, Child and Protective Services and Domestic Violence Clearinghouse benefit from the program.

Renee Ortogero, program director for the Community Clearing House, noted that donations are welcomed throughout the year.