IWILEI, Hawaii (KHON2) — A new community for Hawaii’s homeless was blessed in Iwilei, creating a safe and stable environment for those transitioning out of homelessness.
Alana Ola Pono, or Awakening to a Good Life, is located on North King Street across from Aala Park and reflects the values of aloha and ohana.
The community features 42 kauhale units, six of them ADA-compliant, security units, community centers, facilities for daily living and dedicated spaces for security, maintenance and technology.
This kauhale is a testament to the power of shared commitment to creating a brighter future for all Hawai‘i residents and collectively addressing one of the largest challenges we face as a community. As we open Alana Ola Pono, we also look forward to continued partnerships as we work together to make lasting progress and ensure every resident has a place to call home.
Governor Josh Green, M.D.
Iwilei’s newest village hopes to pave the pathway to stability and self-sufficiency, offering hope to a vulnerable community through innovation, collaboration and aloha.
“This is the meaningful work we are fortunate to do — to provide housing options to those who face so much uncertainty. Partnering with IHS and their long track record of service allows us the ability to foster a continuum of care for those most in need,” said Kimo Carvalho, HomeAid Hawaii Executive Director.
Officials said expected residents include young adults looking for job opportunities, those transitioning out of chronic homelessness and adults with pets.