HCAP WEEKLY June 3, 2024

Central H-HEAP Client Receives a Number of Energy Efficient Home Improvements Through WAP

Earlier this year, a client reached out to HCAP’s Central District Service Center for assistance on utilities through HCAP’s Hawai’i Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP). This client was then contacted by an HCAP Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) Specialist for additional assistance in energy and utility cost savings.

She recalled how it helped her family tremendously, especially in times of unforeseen emergencies. She expressed deep gratitude for the way staff at the Central District Service Center handled her case with such urgency and care when she reached out for help.

Upon qualifying for the program, WAP staff visited her home and completed the home-energy audit. During this visit, she was happy to receive energy-efficient measures that included low-flow sink aerators and showerheads, LED bulbs, and smart power strips.

Not long after her home assessment, she was excited to learn that she also qualified for a brand new 21 cubic-foot refrigerator replacement at no cost to her family. This was one of her main concerns as she noticed that their refrigerator was older and falling apart. Due to her refrigerator not working properly, she was worried that it would be adding to the cost of her monthly electric bills.

She is deeply grateful for all of HCAP’s services and immediately referred her neighbor to HCAP’s Weatherization Assistance Program as well. She is excited to continue sharing her experience with others and hopes they benefit in the same ways she did.

Click here to learn more about the Weatherization Assistance Program.

Single Mother Secures a Job and Enrolls in Healthcare Vocational Training

Selina, a single mother of 3, made remarkable strides on her journey toward a brighter future with the support of the staff at the Windward District Service Center. Despite facing challenges, Selina was determined to pursue her goal of earning a Medical Billing and Coding certificate.

Upon reaching out to Honolulu Community Action Program (HCAP) in May of 2023, Selina shared her aspirations for a better future. Utilizing HCAP’s comprehensive services, Selina found assistance in early education for her youngest child through HCAP’s Head Start program, allowing her to focus on her studies and employment goals. At this time, she obtained employment at Kailua Elementary School. With the help of the Nā Lima Hana Employment Core Services (ECS) tuition assistance, she was able to attend courses for her certification.

While recently reaching her 180 days of employment, she simultaneously attends Hawaii Medical College and is currently completing her externship, which is the final step needed before she can receive her Certificate for Medical Billing and Coding.

Click here to learn more about Nā Lima Hana.

Kalihi Hā Initiative Learns About Sustainability

For the past week, students at the Kalihi Hā Initiative: Creative STEM After-School Program learned about sustainability by exploring small steps that can be applied in their daily lives. In a lesson to showcase how they can help the planet, the students learned about garment pollution, the importance of repurposing clothes, and sustainable thrifting.

The STEM Teachers asked students to bring in old white t-shirts to repurpose them in a fun and interactive way. They learned about tie-dye and the whole process that goes into dying clothes. They enjoyed the process by actively dyeing and tying rubber bands around their shirts to create beautiful designs. They will be wearing these new tie-dyed indigo T-shirts on their upcoming field trip to the Polynesian Cultural Center.

The Kalihi students also hosted a Family Day, where students, parents, and friends were invited to the classroom to explore all of the STEM projects the students have been working on since March.

To prepare, students practiced presenting their projects while being recorded. The classroom was turned into a showroom displaying all of the students’ creative projects. Some of the displays included the class aquaponics system with goldfish and growing chives.

Students were also eager to demonstrate their wave machine; marble roller coaster; and taro plants made out of balloons, glue, and foam sheets. As a class, students designed an About Me Collage board so guests could get to know each of the students and teachers on a more personal level. Delicious snacks were served, such as musubi, sushi, fancy tater tots, fruits, veggies and of course a sweet treat; brownies. What a fun way to end the week!

Click here to learn more about the Hā Initiative: Creative STEM After-School Program.