HCAP WEEKLY April 21, 2025

Purple Pinwheels for Bravery

In honor of the Month of the Military Child, Head Start children at Daniel K. Inouye participated in a meaningful project celebrating courage and bravery. Partnering with DOE staff, the children created purple pinwheels, decorating each with their names and personal designs. After learning about bravery, the children proudly placed their pinwheels in front of the school, joining contributions from the entire student body to create a vibrant and symbolic display near the school office.

Click here to learn more about Head Start.

HCAP’s Weatherization Team Conducts Outreach at Kula No Na Po’e Hawai’i ‘O Papakolea

HCAP’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) staff and Leahi District Staff conducted community outreach with Kula No Na Poe Hawaii Papakolea, Kewalo, Kalawahine (KULA).

Mahealani Austin, Director of KULA’s Health and Human Services helped facilitate conversations of the community’s growing concern regarding education, housing, and energy assistance.  

Through the comfort of ‘talk-story,’ community members were able to gain more insight about eligibility guidelines for programs like Hawai’i Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP) as well as how to receive some basic Energy Savings Education through the WAP program. Many were pleased to learn that those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits were eligible for WAP services and people who receive SNAP assistance are eligible for H-HEAP assistance.

Amber Keaulana, the Program Coordinator of HCAP’s Weatherization Assistance Program, said “These programs can definitely help ease living costs with the many multi-generational homes in Hawaii. As non-profit agencies we always do our best to serve the communities closest to our hearts.”

HCAP would like to thank KULA and especially the community members of Papakolea Homestead for their time and contribution!

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Windward STEM Students Create Lei Blocks

This week at HCAP Hā Initiative’s Windward STEM Exploration Center, students dove into a creative, hands-on project by building, constructing, and personalizing their own lei blocks! A lei block is a simple but important tool made from two wooden blocks with an attached hook that helps secure and stabilize leis during the crafting process. Each student got the opportunity to sand down their wooden blocks, construct, varnish and stain their lei blocks, and personalize their creations with unique touches.

The activity was not only a blend of cultural appreciation and STEM learning but also a great way for students to practice craftsmanship, teamwork, and creative expression. Once finished, they used their customized lei blocks to create beautiful leis, learning traditional techniques and the importance of practical tools in the process. This activity was a fun and creative week full of learning, culture, and personal expression.

Click here to learn more about Hā Initiative.