HCAP WEEKLY June 9, 2025

Central ECS Client Receives Tuition Assistance for Phlebotomy Program

Queenie was referred to our Central District Service Center by one of HCAP’s partners, Hawaii Medical Training Center for tuition assistance to obtain her certificate in the Phlebotomy Technician Training Program.

Queenie is a single mother of 3 children who was looking to further her education and obtain “a stable job and to hopefully grow [her] education in the medical field.” Queenie was able to enroll in the Nā Lima Hana Employment Core Services (ECS) Program and participate in HCAP’s Job Readiness Training. Central District staff also gave Queenie some hygiene supplies for her and her children to help prepare for her journey to start school and look for employment.

Through ECS, HCAP assisted Queenie with expenses for tuition and books to attend Hawaii Medical Training Center. She kept Central District staff updated on her progress and shared that she was able to complete her classes, receiving her certificate with guidance from teacher and admin Ms. Turquoise White.

Central District Service Center is very proud of Queenie’s accomplishments as she reaches toward her goal of becoming a Phlebotomist.

Click here to learn more about Nā Lima Hana.

Head Start Classrooms Engage in Skill-Building Activities

Recently, HCAP Head Start classrooms across O’ahu engaged in creativity, collaboration, and strengthening connections.

Makakilo Head Start explored ways to care for the earth through their Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle study. Children sorted materials in a dramatic play recycling station and learned how items can be repurposed to help reduce landfill waste.

Using creativity, they transformed everyday objects into art, crafting “to-go container” monsters. This hands-on approach reinforced sustainability and encouraged children to think about their role in protecting the planet.

Waipahu Pre-Plus children discovered how roads are made, where they lead, and how to navigate them safely. Through sensory play, they modeled asphalt using playdough while learning about traffic signs and pedestrian safety.

Families joined the study by mapping familiar routes and participating in a Build-a-Box Car activity. The study culminated in a Car Show Parade, celebrating learning through creativity and collaboration.

Nanakuli I Head Start students toured their future elementary school to prepare for their transition to kindergarten. Led by the principal, the visit introduced children to campus life in a welcoming and culturally enriched environment.

The experience helped students feel more comfortable with their upcoming change, ensuring they step into kindergarten with confidence. Families also had the opportunity to engage, strengthening connections within the school community.

Click here to learn more about Head Start and Early Head Start.

Smiles Restored: Project Vision’s Impact at Kumuhonua

At Kumuhonua Transitional Living Center (KTLC), Dr. Sands and Becca from Project Vision Hawai’i brought essential dental care donations for participants, many of whom had gone years without seeing a dentist.

For individuals experiencing homelessness, dental care is often one of the most neglected needs. Dental complications can create barriers to employment, social interaction, and even self-worth. This is why the help of Project Vision has been transformative for participants.

Dr. Sands and Becca showed great compassion, listening to and treating every participant. The services which addressed participants’ dental health, in turn led to personal healing and hope. Dr. Sands commented that the work HCAP staff does with Kumuhonua participants are acts of philanthropy.

KTLC is deeply grateful to Project Vision, Dr. Sands and Becca for their care for participants’ health, dignity, and happiness. Their work has truly made a difference at Kumuhonua, one smile at a time.

Click here to learn more about KTLC.