HCAP Weekly September 21, 2015

In this week’s issue:

The Weatherization Assistance Program Helps Windward Family Become More Energy Efficient
Kumuhonua Resident Rises from Homelessness to Securing Her Own Apartment!
Partnering for Progress
Na Lima Hana Participant Gains Confidence and Secures Full-Time Employment
Palolo Valley Home Residents Learn About Na Lima Hana

The Weatherization Assistance Program Helps Windward Family Become More Energy Efficient

Maxine has been struggling to care for her disabled husband and to upkeep their home in Kaneohe. They have a household of nine and their energy bill was becoming a burden. “In caring for my husband it became extremely difficult for me to financially manage the upkeep of our home,” she said.

Maxine and her family recently received assistance from the Honolulu Community Action Program’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). “We qualified to have our old refrigerator replaced with an energy-efficient unit, a new energy-efficient thermal solar hot water heater was installed, compact fluorescent lights were installed in place of the old incandescent ones, and finally high-efficiency showerheads and faucet aerators were installed,” Maxine explained. With the assistance from the WAP Program, she is hoping to reduce her electric usage by at least 30% per month. Maxine called the program “a God send for us.”

The WAP program enables low-income families and individuals to permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. In addition, educational materials are provided to the families to help them learn valuable energy saving tips and habits that should further reduce their energy consumption. Specific energy conservation measures for this program include installing thermal solar or hybrid electric water heaters; installing compact fluorescent light bulbs; installing high-efficiency shower heads and faucet aerators; installing energy-efficient smart power strips; and replacing inefficient air conditioners and refrigerators. Eligibility for the program is based on household income being within program guidelines, as well as the results of a home energy audit. Priority is given to households with children, the elderly and the disabled.

Applications for assistance are now being accepted at any of HCAP’s District Service Centers or you may call (808) 521-4531 for more information.

Kumuhonua Resident Rises from Homelessness to Securing Her Own Apartment!

In 2012, Patricia had to move out of the home she had been living in for two years. Living on a fixed monthly income made it very difficult for Patricia to secure permanent housing elsewhere. With no one to turn to for housing support, Patricia became homeless, and spent a total of ten months living in an emergency shelter.

In the fall of 2013, Patricia accepted an available unit at the Kumuhonua Transitional Living Center. While living at Kumuhonua, Patricia worked tirelessly to complete numerous housing applications and was proactive about keeping her housing applications active and on waitlists. Meanwhile, Patricia put time and energy into helping maintain Kumuhonua’s grounds. Every week she would diligently complete her community service task of watering the lawn.

All of Patricia’s effort and dedication toward securing permanent housing have paid off. She recently secured permanent housing at Hale O’Hauoli and is now living in her very own apartment! Patricia can finally lay her housing worries to rest, and can now enjoy having a place to call her own. Kumuhonua staff are grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Patricia, and the entire HCAP ohana would like to wish her the very best of luck in all of her future endeavors!

Partnering for Progress

The Honolulu Community Action Program proudly supported its partnership with Oahu WorkLinks at this year’s September JobQuest. WorkLinks hosted the job fair at the Neal Blaisdell Center on September 22nd. Attendees were provided opportunities to meet prospective employers, gain interview experience, and utilize technology resources to prepare them for the job market.

The Na Lima Hana Employment Core Services Program Coordinator, HCAP Program Managers, and additional staff geared up to represent HCAP at the job fair. Together, they shared information about various HCAP programs, the HCAP ohana, and employment opportunities available. Brochures and enrollment information was available for those interested in the Youth Services Program, the Hā Initiative: Creative STEM After-School Program, and HCAP Head Start. In addition, the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) presented information for those interested in reducing their energy bills, and the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) provided information for those over 55 who were seeking employment.

Individuals who would like more information about any of the services offered by the Honolulu Community Action Program may contact (808) 521-4531 or visit www.hcapweb.org.

Na Lima Hana Participant Gains Confidence and Secures Full-Time Employment

Christopher had a rough start to the year, as he struggled to find employment. He was referred to HCAP’s Kalihi-Palama District Service Center, and was soon enrolled in the Na Lima Hana Employment Core Services Program. After attending two days of Job Readiness Training, Christopher verbally expressed how much of a difference the program made for him. He learned how to showcase the skills he possessed, gained more confidence, and learned effective job seeking strategies.

Less than a week later, Christopher was excited to contact HCAP staff with news that he had been hired full-time as a line cook at the Hard Rock Café. HCAP continues to follow Christopher’s journey and will be providing him with work attire so he can begin his job on the right foot.

Palolo Valley Home Residents Learn About Na Lima Hana

Reiko, a Community Worker at the Leahi District Service Center attended the Palolo Valley Homes Food Distribution. As Palolo Valley Home residents waited in line, Reiko talked story with them and shared information about the Na Lima Hana Employment Core Services Program and other HCAP resources. In the past, Na Lima Hana has assisted many residents from Palolo Valley Homes in finding employment. Recently, four residents found full-time employment and reached a program milestone of 60 days employment. Reiko hopes she was able to spread the word and will see more residents enroll in Na Lima Hana in the near future.