‘Ulalena Grants a Christmas Wish for a Maui Family

This Christmas ‘Ulalena was blessed to be able to grant a wish for a less-fortunate Maui family.  The Ka’auai family’s only two Christmas wishes were new bedding for their 8 children, and a chance to see the ‘Ulalena show.  The family currently resides at the Hale ‘O Waine’e shelter in Lahaina, and is solely dependent on the income provided by the oldest sibling, and their father who lives and works on Moloka’i. The children range in age from 2-21 years old and are a lively bunch full of Aloha.

Front of house supervisors, Robyn Hussey and Mel Facuri-Juario received a call from a Diamond Resort Activity agent who was trying to make the Ka’auai family’s dream come true. Diamond Resorts had already generously donated brand new bedding for each of the Ka’auai children.  Both Mel and Robynn wanted to take the family’s wish a step further and approached the ‘Ulalena staff with the family’s story. In addition to a Christmas Eve show at ‘Ulalena, they were able to gather donations from the cast and crew so that each child would have a gift waiting for them under our ‘Ulalena Christmas tree. “It feels great to know we are helping someone have a brighter Christmas.” said Robynn, “Giving them tickets to the show is easy, we wanted to go a step further to make it really special.”

Dennis Pruessler, our general manager, also stepped in and sought the help of one of our dinner partners, Lahaina Prime Rib and Fish Company on Front Street. They generously offered the family a complimentary dinner before the show so they could enjoy the full ‘Ulalena experience.  The family was greeted by cast members after the show, and the family truly enjoyed themselves.

The cast members were touched by the family’s presence at the show. It reminded them that what our shows finale is all about, hope for the future of our island’s people. What a way to celebrate Christmas with this wonderful family.