Kauaʻi Proclaims Nov. 13-21 as Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

On Monday, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami proclaimed Nov. 13-21 as Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week – a national effort to educate the public, bring awareness to the problem of poverty, and support volunteers engaged in the community.

“As we approach this holiday season, no one should have to worry about whether they will have food on their plate or a roof over their head, but the reality is that hunger and homelessness are widespread problems that affect far too many people,” Kawakami said. “It takes a village to tackle this issue. We thank our Housing Agency who seek funding and develop affordable housing opportunities across our island, our councilmembers who search for solutions, our non-profit partners for providing unique and much-needed services, and our community members who engage in positive solutions.”

The Kaua‘i County Council also presented a certificate and Gov. Liaison Carrice Gardner shared remarks during Monday’s ceremony, which was hosted by the Kaua‘i County Housing Agency and attended by various agencies including representatives from YWCA, Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, Project Vision Hawai‘i, Salvation Army, Hale ‘Ōpio, Ho‘ōla Lāhui, Kaua‘i Economic Opportunity, U.S. VETS, and CARE Hawai‘i.

In observance of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, the Kaua‘i Community Alliance will also host the third annual Kaua‘i Housing Connect homeless outreach event on Thursday, Nov. 18, at the Salvation Army in Līhu‘e. Over 10 nonprofit agencies will be in attendance offering services such as flu vaccinations, hot showers, hygiene products, vision screening, resource cards, food, and sign-ups for housing vouchers and bus pass programs.

“The Kaua‘i County Housing Agency, along with various agencies within the Kaua‘i Community Alliance, continue to perform ongoing outreach across the island, connecting people with various programs and services,” said Housing Director Adam Roversi. “This week is not just a reminder of the many issues surrounding hunger and homelessness, but it’s an opportunity for us all to get involved and be part of the solution. Alone, we can’t solve the vast problems of homelessness, but together, we can make a difference, one step at a time.”

To learn more about Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week or about Kaua‘i’s outreach programs, call Kaua‘i County Housing Agency homeless coordinator at 808-241-4427 or email [email protected].