HCAP WEEKLY February 24, 2025

Leeward Client Receives HCAP Weatherization Services Following H-HEAP

Joseph visited the Leeward District Service Center to apply for the Hawai’i Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP) to receive Energy Credit in June. Leeward District staff noticed that he was a homeowner and introduced him to the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) to share how he can further his home energy savings. They were able to assist Joseph in applying for WAP, and after confirming his eligibility, WAP Specialists conducted an energy audit for his home.

Joseph received a brand-new, free stove and hybrid water heater. He was also eligible to receive small measures, including LED light bulbs, a showerhead, and smoke alarms.

“It’s great that we are able to help clients who earn a fixed income. They definitely benefit from our programs and wraparound services,” remarked Leeward District staff member, Ariel Humble.

Wraparound services are integral to HCAP’s mission of providing well-rounded assistance to clients in achieving self-reliance. HCAP’s District Service Centers located throughout O’ahu look forward to continuing its services for Hawai’i’s communities!

Click here to learn more about the Weatherization Assistance Program.

HCAP Kalihi-Palama District Service Center Relocates to Kukui Gardens

HCAP’s Kalihi-Palama District Service Center has officially relocated. A higher demand grew for accessible housing units at Kamehameha Homes, therefore after 30 amazing years of serving thousands of families and members of the community out of this space, there was a need for the Kalihi-Palama District Service Center to relocate. While it was bittersweet to part from its place at Kamehameha Homes, which Kalihi-Palama was fortunate to operate out of for many years, it was time to find a new home. The Kalihi-Palama District Service Center is equipped with a wonderful group of community partners, who also participate in the Kalihi-Palama District Council, and upon notice, they were all proactive in assisting.

HCAP received notice from a long-time community partner, Helen Lee, from Kukui Gardens, who shared the possibility of an available space for the new Kalihi-Palama District office. With that, arose ongoing communication between HCAP Director of Community Services, Robin Fakaosi, and the Kukui Gardens team – Helen Lee, Resource Coordinator; John Hoo, Lead Resource Coordinator; and Michelle Parker, Director of Resident Services. Eventually, the Kalihi-Palama District Service Center was approved and welcomed to move into Kukui Gardens in early 2025.

In the meantime, the Kalihi-Palama District office temporarily operated out of HCAP’s Central District Service Center. There, its District Manager, Katy Perry, and her team, along with Kalihi-Palama District Manager, Ace Tufu, and his team were able to cooperate to continue providing services to both Central and Kalihi-Palama clients. This move has been a great collaborative effort between HCAP’s Corporate team, District teams, and IS team, to coordinate a smooth transition, make necessary adjustments, and start anew at Kukui Gardens. A huge mahalo is extended to everyone who assisted in tackling challenges throughout the relocation journey.

Since moving into Kukui Gardens, the Kalihi-Palama staff have already kept busy assisting 4 families with Employment Core Services and 1 individual with tuition assistance through Nā Lima Hana, 7 families with utility assistance through the Weatherization Assistance Program, and 30 households with Income Tax Services.

Click here to learn more about HCAP’s Programs and Services.

Head Start Keiki Celebrate Chinese New Year

The Head Start children at Daniel K. Inouye Elementary School and Salt Lake Pre-Plus learned about the importance of Chinese New Year in Chinese culture.

From learning about culture, traditions and celebrations, to reading various books about the Lunar New Year, both classrooms celebrated with the Lion and Dragon dances. The children at Daniel K. Inouye created their own dance, while at Salt Lake Pre-Plus, the Sin Yung Dragon & Lion Dance Association performed in the classroom.

Click here to learn more about HCAP’s Head Start and Early Head Start.