HCAP WEEKLY June 8, 2026

Head Start Builds Skills That Strengthen Our Community

HCAP Head Start children are continuously supported in developing skills like collaboration, problem solving and environmental awareness. Through hands-on experiences like exploring their communities, they practice working together to build shared spaces, use their active listening skills to learn about different roles in their community and reflect on how they can support each other. 

Experiences like meeting community helpers encourage children to think creatively about recycling and caring for their environment. The children collaborated and gained a sense of responsibility and belonging, as they learned all about the place they call home and how to protect it.

Click here to learn more about Head Start.

Wahiawa Ohana Receives Free Solar Water Heater Through Wraparound Services

Crystal had previously applied for and received services from HCAP’s Hawai’i Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP). However, she was unaware that she could benefit from more of HCAP’s programs through wraparound services. After talking with her coworker, Crystal learned that she could also benefit from HCAP’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP).

Once she completed her application and sent in her required documents, the Weatherization team scheduled a free home energy audit. Throughout the process, Crystal mentioned that they had been struggling with an on-going issue with a lack of heated water for the household. The WAP staff understood why she could be having this problem since the family of four only had a 50-gallon water heater installed for the home. At the end of the home energy audit, the Weatherization team found that her household was eligible for a brand new 120-gallon solar water heater as well as other small measures like power strips, LED light bulbs, and more at no cost to them! 

Crystal was overjoyed with the news. Through Weatherization Assistance they were able to enjoy warm showers for the whole family. Crystal shared, “This program is a blessing, we are so happy to have hot water! The staff and support is amazing!”

The HCAP Weatherization Assistance Program would like to thank its partners and vendors for their continued support in carrying out the program’s mission! If you or someone you know is in need of WAP services, please contact us at 808-521-4531

Click here to learn more about Weatherization.

Students at Central STEM Dive into Volcano Research

This week at Hā Initiative’s Central STEM Exploration Center, students explored the exciting and powerful world of volcanoes through hands-on learning, research, and games. Young scientists learned about the different types of volcanoes and discovered how volcanoes form, what causes eruptions, and how volcanic activity can shape the Earth’s surface over time. Discussions also included the different kinds of lava flows, volcanic hazards, and the important role volcanoes play in the natural world.

Students then took on the role of researchers as they completed their own volcano research projects. Working independently and in small groups, students investigated some of the world’s most famous volcanoes. They learned important facts including each volcano’s name, location, altitude, eruption history, and level of activity. Students explored volcanoes from different parts of the world and shared interesting discoveries with one another. Throughout the project, students practiced valuable research, reading, and presentation skills while building their confidence as young scientists.

To reinforce everything they learned during the week, students participated in a fun-filled volcano board game challenge. Through teamwork and friendly competition, students answered volcano trivia questions, solved science challenges, and tested their knowledge about volcanic eruptions and volcano types. The game encouraged critical thinking, collaboration, and communication while making science both exciting and interactive.

By the end of the week, students had gained a deeper understanding of volcanoes and Earth science while strengthening important STEM skills through research, problem-solving, teamwork, and hands-on learning experiences. It was an exciting week full of discovery, creativity, and scientific exploration at Central Hā Initiative.

Click here to learn more about Hā Initiative.