In recognition of National First Responders Day, the North Shore Give organized a caravan on Wednesday, Oct. 28, visiting emergency service stations across Kauaʻi to personally thank the men and women who protect the island’s communities.
This year’s recognition carried added significance following Hurricane Lowell, when first responders answered the call during the storm and continued working through its aftermath.
For residents of Kauaʻi’s remote North Shore, where emergency resources can be limited, their readiness and dedication are especially important.
“Hurricane Lowell reminded us just how much we depend on our First Responders, especially on Kauaʻi’s remote North Shore, where emergency resources are limited,” said Maylette Garces, executive director of North Shore Give.
“At North Shore Give, strengthening our community includes recognizing those who work tirelessly to keep us safe,” she said.
“We wanted to personally thank them and let them know how deeply we appreciate their dedication, sacrifices, and service.”
The caravan made stops at stations serving the North Shore and at department headquarters in Līhuʻe, including the Kauaʻi Fire Department, Kauaʻi Police Department, Ocean Safety Bureau, American Medical Response and Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency.
At each location, participants made brief visits to deliver treats, share aloha and express appreciation directly to the emergency personnel on duty.
Although the Wednesday schedule limited participation, the caravan included North Shore Give President Louis LaFratta, Treasurer April McGinnis, Garces and several volunteers.
County councilmembers were also invited, but the event coincided with a County Council meeting.
LaFratta said the effort was an opportunity to recognize first responders not only for their extraordinary response during Hurricane Lowell but also for the work they do every day.
“To our First Responders, a heartfelt mahalo for your courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to keeping our communities safe. Your extraordinary response during Hurricane Lowell reminded us how fortunate we are to have you there when we need you most,” LaFratta said.
He encouraged residents to make appreciation an ongoing practice rather than something reserved for emergencies or special occasions.
“These dedicated men and women put others before themselves every day, and they deserve our gratitude and support,” he said.
“At North Shore Give, we believe a stronger community begins with people looking out for one another, and our First Responders exemplify that spirit every single day.”
The Oct. 28 caravan continued a community tradition established by North Shore Give in 2025.
Last year’s inaugural National First Responders Day caravan visited seven locations, bringing together nonprofit members, volunteers and a county councilmember to deliver treats and personalized messages of appreciation.
The effort was designed to bring a personal touch to thanking those who routinely put themselves in service to others.
This year’s expanded itinerary included stops from Hanalei and Princeville to Anahola, Kaiākea and Līhuʻe, with visits to Ocean Safety Bureau locations, ambulance stations, fire and police facilities, and county emergency management headquarters.
For North Shore Give, the message behind the visits extended beyond one day of recognition: A strong community depends on the people who show up when others need help.
As Kauaʻi continues its recovery from Hurricane Lowell, the organization hopes the caravan serves as a reminder that the island’s first responders are valued not only during a crisis but throughout the year.
Residents interested in learning more about the North Shore Give and staying up to date on all its events can click here.
