HCAP WEEKLY May 25, 2026

Waimanalo Family Turns Home Around With Weatherization Assistance

Lavina and her family learned about the various programs and services HCAP offers from their local HCAP Service Center in the Windward District. Initially inquiring about the Hawai’i Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP), the Windward District Manager shared information with Lavina about the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) as another resource to reduce her household’s energy consumption and costs. She also learned that she could be eligible for energy saving appliances to be installed into her home free of charge. 

In the midst of attempting to repair her family home, Lavina decided it wouldn’t hurt to apply. After receiving a home energy audit from WAP staff, she found out that her household was eligible for free replacements of their refrigerator, solar water heater, and small measures like power strips, a smoke alarm, and LED light bulbs. The WAP team along with their vendors were also able to repair a major water leak in her hot water line below ground in order to successfully install her brand new 80-gallon solar water heater.

When meeting Lavina after her finalized installs, she greeted the WAP Team with joy and gratitude. She mentioned that her family can finally enjoy hot showers and fresh food after what felt like a lifetime of bumps in the road towards a happy home. 

Lavina shared, “It is with God’s grace that we are able to receive such blessings, thank you HCAP.”

Click here to learn more about Weatherization.

Kalihi STEM Students Present Penguin Species and Habitat Research Projects to Family Members

At Kalihi Hā Initiative: Creative STEM After-School Program, students hosted a penguin themed Family Day event with about 50 guests who attended the fun-filled evening. The students have always been fascinated and curious about penguins and their living conditions – precisely how they survive in extremely cold areas, adapt to different climates, and thrive in environments ranging from icy Antarctica to surprisingly warm regions near the equator. Their curiosity made penguins the perfect focus for a STEM exploration project. Each student chose one type of penguin out of the 18 species and conducted a research project on their selection.

Students created their own “Pengumon” cards inspired by Pokémon cards, adding unique traits, food sources, special powers, habitats, and their penguin’s scientific name. Each student designed a unique card either by hand or digitally using the web application, Canva. They could then play, trade, and interact with each other’s creations during the event. For their research projects, students explored the characteristics, behaviors, and adaptations of their penguins. 

They brought learning to life by building dioramas completely from scratch using upcycled materials like shoeboxes and cardboard. Each diorama represented the penguin’s natural environment and climate. Students explored and recreated the wide range of climates penguins live in, from the icy, frozen landscapes of Antarctica, home to species such as the Emperor and Adélie penguins, to the subantarctic islands known for their cold, windy, and rocky shores where King and Macaroni penguins thrive. They also learned about temperate coastal regions with milder weather, such as those inhabited by Magellanic and Humboldt penguins, as well as the rare tropical environments near the equator like the Galápagos Islands, the only place in the world where penguins live in a warm climate.

Using clay, sand, rocks, and other natural resources, along with paint, glitter, foam, and cotton balls, students carefully constructed their habitats to reflect these diverse ecosystems. Each student confidently presented their project in front of all the guests, showcasing not only scientific understanding but also creativity and communication skills. To tie in a hands-on food activity, students prepared a dessert using whipped cream, blue Jell-O, and marshmallows to recreate an Arctic environment, blending STEM with sensory and creative expression.

The event also featured our famous cotton candy machines along with a variety of delicious food and snacks, making the evening even more special for families. Overall, students had an incredible time celebrating their hard work. The excitement, creativity, and pride were evident throughout the evening. They are already looking forward to hosting their final event of the year at the end of May!

Click here to learn more about Hā Initiative.

Leeward Mother Obtains Certified Driver’s License to Support Family

Kelsey was referred to HCAP’s Leeward District Service Center to seek tuition assistance through the Nā Lima Hana Employment Core Services (ECS) Program. Motivated to improve her family’s financial stability, Kelsey expressed a strong interest in obtaining her Certified Driver’s License (CDL) and pursuing a career in the trucking industry. 

As a devoted wife and mother of two children, Kelsey faced the challenge of balancing family responsibilities while working towards her career goals. Despite these demands, she took the initiative to contact HCAP’s Leeward office, complete her intake and enroll in HCAP services. Through Nā Lima Hana, Kelsey gained access to the support and resources needed to begin her training journey. 

From the beginning Kelsey remained committed to her goal. She actively participated in follow-ups with her Case Manager, stayed consistent with her job training schedule, and demonstrated strong perseverance while balancing her responsibilities at home. Throughout her participation in ECS, she maintained communication with HCAP Leeward District staff and provided updates on her progress and preparation for her final CDL test.

In April 2026, Kelsey successfully completed her CDL training and received her certificate of completion. This accomplishment marks a significant step toward securing stable, higher paying employment in the trucking industry. Kelsey’s hard work and dedication have positioned her for long-term success and greater sufficiency for her family. 

Click here to learn more about Nā Lima Hana.