HCAP WEEKLY July 15, 2024

Central Client Receives Energy Efficient Home Appliances Through Weatherization

Ardis first contacted HCAP’s Central District Office to apply for the Hawaii Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP). After her H-HEAP application was approved, she was automatically qualified for HCAP’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) as well. WAP Specialist, Shawn, reached out to her about the program and assisted her in completing the WAP application. Once her paperwork was completed and processed, an in-home energy audit was scheduled.  

Throughout the in-home energy audit, Ardis’ home was assessed as a whole. She was provided with information on energy efficiency and learned how to take measures to save more energy in her home. As a result of the audit, she was able to receive small energy efficient devices such as a low-flow shower head, smart power strip, LED bulb, and smoke alarm. Her refrigerator was metered to check the energy consumption and visually inspected for damages. As for her stove, only one burner was functioning but inconsistently and her oven could not hold the temperature to cook her food thoroughly, which presented many challenges in preparing meals. Ardis was later informed that she had met the criteria for both a refrigerator and stove replacement, to which she was extremely happy about.

Ardis remarked, “I want to thank you and HCAP for the brand new appliances. I am so grateful, and I will spread the word of the awesome weatherization program HCAP offers!”

Click Here to learn more about the Weatherization Assistance Program.

Kumuhonua Clients’ Success in Securing Permanent Housing

Benny and Tamie, residents of the HCAP Kumuhonua Transitional Living Center (KTLC), achieved a major milestone when they secured permanent housing in Kapolei. The two provided all the necessary documentation, consistently paid their rent on time, and demonstrated their commitment to gaining stability and self-sufficiency.

KTLC is committed to assisting individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability. The program offered Benny and Tamie comprehensive support services, including case management throughout their journey, life skills training, and making resources accessible to help the participants secure permanent housing. Benny and Tamie’s success shows the effectiveness of this program in empowering individuals to overcome challenging circumstances.

Benny and Tamie’s journey to permanent housing not only reflects their resilience but also sheds light on the importance of addressing homelessness and housing instability in the community. Their story shows how HCAP’s comprehensive support services facilitate positive outcomes. By sharing their story, Benny and Tamie inspire others to believe in the possibility of change and to seek out the resources available to them for support.

Click Here to learn more about Kumuhonua Transitional Living Center.

Kalihi Hā Initiative Students Learn About Environmental Sciences

This past week at Kalihi Hā Initiative: Creative STEM After-School Program, Jurell and Alaysia took a deep dive into the topic of earthquakes. They learned about the scientific process behind earthquakes and built their own seismograph, an instrument used to record the motion of the ground during an earthquake.

The fun continued with learning about starfish. The Kalihi students completed a research project about different types of native sea stars present in Hawai’i. They wrote about the habitats, life span, physical features and food preferences of sea stars. Each student chose two of their favorite Hawaiian starfish to use as a model to create their own salt dough figurines. Jurell chose the Linckia Laevigata and Alaysia chose the Biscuit Sea Star. They started off by making their dough then proceeded to form their dough into starfish models. After 48 hours, the starfish were dry and ready to be decorated. They are now on display in the Kalihi Hā Initiative classroom.

In line with the theme of environmental sciences, students learned about how vital sustainability is especially in Hawaiʼi. Participating in sustainable efforts helps to preserve the state’s unique ecosystems and support its culture.

Trevor, a student at Windward STEM demonstrated ways in which he lives sustainably by creating a poster for the classroom to show the small steps he takes in his community that can have a larger impact such as local farming, recycling packaging items (cans, bottles, boxes, etc.), purchasing reusable water bottles, and helping to clean up trash in the Hauʻula community.

Click Here to learn more about the Hā Initiative.