Meet Our Past Recipients!
Kenneth Oaks – Overcoming Obstacles & Inspiring Others
Inaugural Group cruise for HH4C October 15 2022 Carnival Horizon
Hello, my name is Kenneth Oaks, and I am a young man from Western North Carolina who has faced and overcome many challenges in life. Living with cerebral palsy and hydrocephalus disease has never stopped me from chasing my dreams, and I want the world to know that having a disability doesn’t mean you can’t reach your goals and conquer the world!
I have a passion for food reviews, taking adventures, working on cars, and sharing my journey—the struggles, the victories, and most of all, my love for the Lord. On our YouTube channel, Daily Dose of the Bible KJV Kenneth Oaks, I share my faith, and my fiancée, Hope Faith, runs her own channel, Daily Dose of the Bible KJV Hope Faith. When I’m not able to post, she’ll be here sharing content, so please welcome her with open arms!
One of the biggest blessings in my life came through Helping Hands for Cruising, which gave me the opportunity to experience something I never thought possible—a cruise and the chance to see the ocean for the very first time. It was truly life-changing, and I will forever be grateful for the memories made and the kindness shown to me.
I hope my story inspires others to never give up, no matter what obstacles come your way. With faith, determination, and a strong support system, anything is possible! God bless you all! 🙏💙⚓
A Dream Come True for Cindy & James Catanese
Finstastic Travel Carnival Pride March 12,2023
Helping Hands for Cruising was honored to grant a life-changing experience to Cindy and James Catanese, our 2024 recipients. James, who lives with a disability, never imagined he would have the opportunity to set sail on a once-in-a-lifetime cruise, exploring breathtaking ports of call alongside his loving wife, Cindy. Thanks to this incredible initiative, they were able to embrace new adventures, create unforgettable memories, and experience the joy of travel—something they may have never been able to do otherwise.
Their journey is a reminder of the power of kindness, community, and generosity. Seeing their smiles and excitement was a true testament to why Helping Hands for Cruising exists—to make dreams a reality for those who need it most. 💙⚓✨
Meet Amber & Scott Hicks – Helping Hands 4 Cruising Recipients
Finstastic Travel. Carnival Pride march 12,2023
Amber and Scott Hicks are the embodiment of faith, kindness, and resilience. Living in the beautiful mountains of Avery County, North Carolina, they navigate life with unwavering dedication to their family, community, and faith. Despite facing financial hardships, they remain selfless in their journey—always putting others before themselves.
Scott, a devoted minister, and Amber, a compassionate healthcare worker, work tirelessly to provide for their two adventurous sons, Eli and Ayden. Their home is filled with love, faith, and a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. Whether it’s dirt biking, four-wheeling, camping, fishing, or hunting, the Hicks family finds joy in every adventure.
Their generosity knows no bounds. In a true act of compassion, Scott and Amber opened their home to a homeless man in need, giving him a place to belong when he had nowhere else to go. Even with limited means, their hearts remain full, always striving to make a difference in the lives of others.
One thing the Hicks family has never been able to do is experience the joy of cruising. Financial constraints have always made such a trip impossible—but thanks to Helping Hands 4 Cruising, that dream is finally becoming a reality!
Join them as they embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, sharing their journey with the world. Through their faith, their love for the outdoors, and their commitment to spreading kindness, the Hicks family is a true testament to the power of generosity and community.
Roxie Yates – Group Cruise Put A Lime In It
4th recipient for HH4c – on Carnival Breeze october 21, 2024
Hi, I’m Roxanne, and I’m so blessed to have been chosen as the 4th recipient of Helping Hands for Cruising. I live in Georgia with my sweet dog, Candy, and I have a passion for crocheting, cooking, and gardening—things that bring me peace and joy.
After losing my husband, I never imagined I would have the chance to go on a cruise, let alone experience the beauty of the ocean. But thanks to Helping Hands for Cruising, I was given the opportunity of a lifetime, and it truly changed my life. This trip was filled with laughter, adventure, and healing, and I am beyond grateful for the love and support from everyone who made it possible.
This experience has opened a new chapter for me, and I am excited for the future and all the wonderful adventures to come. If you’ve ever felt like certain dreams are out of reach—never give up! Miracles happen, and there are incredible people out there who care and want to help. I can’t wait to see what’s next! 💙⚓✨
