The Housing Agency is calling on the public to mark their calendars for an important week dedicated to addressing critical social issues in our communities. In a proclamation ceremony scheduled for Monday, November 10, from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Līhu‘e Civic Center Mo‘ikeha Rotunda, the agency will officially designate November 16 to 22 as National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. The week-long observance seeks to not only draw attention to the plights of poverty but also to celebrate the countless volunteers and organizations that dedicate their time to support these causes.
According to a press release from the Housing Agency, the initiative is a call to action for the entire community to actively support and engage in solving homelessness, which persists as a "complex challenge" on Kaua‘i. Farah Aquino, the Kaua‘i County Housing Agency’s Homeless Coordinator, emphasized the connection between homelessness and food insecurity, especially among working-class families. "We are deeply grateful for our partners," Aquino said, referencing a cadre of nonprofits, "that work tirelessly every day to help those in need."
The week will also feature Project Housing Connect, which is slated to host three community events throughout the island. These events will provide resources and raise awareness on issues related to housing and food insecurity. On November 18, the initiative will take place at the Līhu‘e Salvation Army, followed by an event at the Hanapēpē Salvation Army on November 19, and concluding at All Saints Church in Kapa‘a on November 20. Each event is scheduled to run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For those seeking more information or willing to participate in National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, the press release advises contacting Farah Aquino at [email protected]. Details about Project Housing Connect are accessible by reaching out to Crystal Caday-Bargayo at 808-855-8687. The Kaua‘i Community Alliance, which is the island's local Continuum of Care, can be contacted through Makana Kamibayashi at 808-212-0850. The Housing Agency has also made it clear that accommodations for accessibility, such as ASL interpreters or materials in alternative formats, can be arranged by contacting Aquino well in advance of the events.
