HONOLULU (KHON2) — The KHON2 News and Living 808 team stepped away from the studio and into our communities across the state for Laulima Day, a time to give back and spread aloha this holiday season.
From Oahu to Kauai, Maui to Hawaii Island, it was entertainment mixed with a purpose at each of the islandwide sites.
At Kahala Mall, the donations of toys, household items and monetary donations overflowed in a good way. Laulima Giving Day is a holiday tradition that goes beyond just gifts.
“We want all the families to provide not just the gifts but it’s the connecting through the gifts on Christmas. That’s really the laulima special moment that makes a difference,” said Aaron Larson, Keiki O Ka Aina program manager.
Laulima is also a time for families to reflect on values.
“It’s important for them to know that they’re really privileged and we need to give to everybody who doesn’t have as much,” said mom Kimberly Isobe.
At Ka Makana Alii, the stock of gingerbread houses being offered for a donation was gone in an hour and the generosity of the community comes from businesses as well.
“Interestingly enough, the laulima giving program has continued to rise even through COVID. So here’s another example of us coming together, reaching more people we have more business partners than ever we’re reaching into the community more often with people like KHON,” explained Michael Wong, Keiki O Ka Aina Business Development Specialist.
The celebration of giving was also strong at Windward Mall and Pearlridge Mall. Shoppers paused their shopping to donate, all destined to make the holidays brighter for those in need.
On Maui, our team at Queen Kaahumanu Center brought holiday magic to help families.
While at the Prince Kuhio Plaza in Hilo, among the donations, were those made by hand from the heart. Hilo resident Lynne Takahara sews quilts every year.
“Every year I make, so you guys get about 10. Today, you only get eight,” Takahara said.
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Statewide, Laulima Day reminded us of the incredible power of the community.
Keiki O Ka Aina CEO Momi Akana expressed her gratitude. “We love all the halau that came to support, all the volunteers. It was a great year. Mahalo.”