HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0099.023 2020-2022 I
Written Public Testimony Supporting The Ad Hoc Committee Recommendations
Nonprofit Grant Applications for FY 2021-22
Meeting of May 4, 2021, 9:00 am — Hawai'i County Council Human Services and Social
Services Committee COUNTY CINE
RK
COUNTY OF HAWAVI
RECEIVED
May 3, 2021
Date MAY 0 3 2021
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Dear Madam Chair Susan L. K. Lee Loy, Madam Vice Chair Ashley Kierkiewicz and Honorable
Committee Members,
My name is Michelle Manalo, and I am the Treasurer for Friends of Big Island Drug Court, Inc,
(FOBIDC). We are a diverse group of Board Members who support the Big Island Drug and
Veterans Treatment Court programs. Our purpose is to secure funds so that we may support
and help supplement participants in obtaining their goals while in the program. We are honored
and grateful to be considered by the Ad Hoc Committee Recommendations for Nonprofit Grant
Applications for FY 2021-22,
If awarded, FOBIDC could support participants significantly. Some instances include distributing
taxi coupons or bus tickets to assist them with getting to work, school, or appointments; paying
for tutor costs or GED testing fees; paying for a copy of his/her birth certificate; assisting with a
security deposit for rental; rewarding each milestone with a gift card as an incentive; and,
ultimately, celebrating each one's success with a graduation event. Participants face barriers in
their quest to make positive changes in their lives. With the support of FOBIDC and our
community, they will benefit and have the opportunity to pursue their goals and to become a
successful individual and an inspiration for many.
I speak highly of the Big Island Drug and Veteran Treatment Court programs because I am a
proud and grateful graduate. Through the supportive services, the willingness and desire to
become a better version of myself, I have changed my life. For that, I strongly believe in and
support the program. Statistics show that Drug Court and Veterans Court programs reduce
recidivism and 91% of Big Island Drug Court program graduates have not recommitted crimes in
the three years after graduation.
Once again, thank you for considering Friends Of Big Island Drug Court, Inc.
Sincerely,
Uu,
Michelle Manalo, Treasurer
Friends of Big Island Drug Court, Inc.
mlm.goinghomehawaiigmail,com
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