HCAP WEEKLY February 12, 2024

Kumuhonua’s Partner Visit from Hawaiian Community Assets

The staff and participants at HCAP’s Kumuhonua Transitional Living Center (KTLC) would like to thank Britney Kalva and Punahele Todd from Hawaiian Community Assets (HCA) for generously sharing their time to inform KTLC participants about the valuable services their agency provides. During the presentation, attendees were informed about the diverse support offered by HCA, including credit repair, financial counseling, career guidance, and programs for homebuyers and renters.

Attendees actively had lots of questions for Britney and Puna and expressed their excitement and interest to learn more. KTLC Case Manager, Carolyn Pule was overjoyed to see that the participants had all signed up to start receiving these services. Additionally, all offerings provided by HCA are free of charge to their participants!

HCAP values partnerships with organizations that offer services aligning with the mission of providing opportunities and inspiration. A big mahalo to HCA for their commitment and support. KTLC looks forward to collaborating more with this organization in the days ahead.

Click Here to learn more about KTLC.

Central Client Learns New Skills and Secures Employment

HCAP’s Central District Service Center staff had the pleasure of assisting Jon through Nā Lima Hana Employment Core Services (ECS). Jon was part of an intake group from the OCCC Module 20 Work Furlough Program. Jon is 60 years old and one of the many challenges he was facing was searching and securing employment. Jon shared that he had little to no computer skills, which was an honest concern especially when much of today’s labor force relies heavily on virtual technology. Fortunately, the ECS Job Readiness Training offers training in utilizing a computer for job searching. Jon spent time familiarizing himself with the computer, learning how to open an internet browser, type keywords to specify his job search, and use an email account. After his Job Readiness Training, Jon was able to navigate through the internet, job search, and create, check, and send an email.

As a participant in the Work Furlough Program, Jon had little to no income with limited access. To alleviate some stress of paying for transportation fare, Jon was given a HOLO card to help with transportation as he attended interviews or job-related appointments. Jon was excited to start his new journey and shared that he had an interest in joining a construction union. He also stated, “I am just a hard worker, no matter what I do, I just do my best to get the job done.”

Jon first secured employment as a Warehouse Helper with Ham Produce and Seafood for which the Central District Service Center was able to help with purchasing his work attire. While working there, Jon continued to look for a job that better aligned with his career goals. Within two months Jon was hired as a Roofer at Honolulu Roofing Company Inc. After hire, Jon submitted verification of 30, 60, 90, and 180 days of employment, highlighting his successful accomplishment of surpassing all ECS milestones and earning gift card incentives for doing so.

Central staff recently followed up with Jon’s OCCC Module 20 Work Furlough program and were informed that Jon had successfully completed the Work Furlough Program. Staff also followed up on his employment status and were informed that he has maintained his employment. HCAP staff are hopeful and confident that Jon will continue on his journey of self-sufficiency and are proud to be part of his successful, life-changing story.

Click Here to learn more about HCAP’s Programs & Services.

Head Start Visits the Fire Station

During their walking field trip, the Head Start keiki at Jefferson II and Jefferson Pre Plus visited Station 7 of the Honolulu Fire Department. The firefighters educated the keiki and staff on their role as community helpers and the life-saving equipment stored on the fire engine. The firefighters also allowed them to help with a fire hose demonstration. The field trip was an educational activity that supported their study of community helpers and assisted in making real-life connections.

Click Here to learn more about Head Start & Early Head Start.