Responding to Basic Needs

Disaster victims, separated families, and the economically disadvantaged, are just a few of the clients who benefit from social support programs. The goal is to help these people attain economic and social stability.

Results You Can See ...

  • Provided over 7,300 bed days and 11,000 meals for those with mental health issues.
  • Improved oral health of nearly 700 uninsured, low-income residents.
  • Fed the homeless and hungry: Over 2 million pounds of food distributed.
  • Taught valuable life skills to over 200 homeless people.

Building a Healthier Community ... A Real Life Story

After overstaying their welcome with family and friends over a six month period of time, a young family of five entered the shelter. The devoted Father had lost a full time job and was unable to find full time employment that would cover monthly bills. The Father had experience working in restaurants with aspiration of becoming a chef, but could not afford to go to school and feed his family. Credit problems and lack of available affordable housing prevented the family from moving out of the shelter.

With the assistance of a case manager and housing specialist, a plan was developed to help the family access public housing, address their credit issues and save money while staying at the shelter. During this time the father was offered a scholarship at the Kalakaua Culinary Institute in partnership with the East Hawaii Coalition for the Homeless. Within three months the Father was cooking 4 days a week at a local restaurant and continuing with classes. They are almost clear of debt and recently moved into an affordable housing unit.

Basic Needs Programs that the Hawaii Island United Way supports:

American Heart Association
American Red Cross
Legal Aid Society of Hawaii
Office of Social Ministry
The Salvation Army Hawaii Island Division