HomeMy WebLinkAboutKawaiaea, Rodney Jr.
Tsuneda, Kaci
From:Rodney Kawaiaea <rodney@neighborhoodplace.org>
Sent:Monday, September 14, 2026 11:27 AM
To:Council Testimony
Subject:County Homelessness and Housing Fund
Rodney A. Kawaiaea Jr
09/17/2026
Hawaii County Council
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, HI 96720
Subject: Support for extending the Hawaii County Homelessness and Housing Fund program
Aloha County Council Members,
I am writing to you today to ask that you please support extending the Hawaii County Homeless and Housing
Fund program.
Like many people who live here, I care deeply about the wellbeing of our local community. Seeing folks
struggle with housing on the Big Island whether they are living out of their cars, pitching tents in parks, or just
one paycheck away from losing their apartments is heartbreaking. It is an issue that touches all of us, and
finding real solutions has to remain a top priority.
The Homeless and Housing Fund has proven to be a crucial tool in tackling this crisis. It helps get resources
directly to the on the ground organizations and service providers who are doing the heavy lifting every single
day. Because of this funding, more people are getting access to emergency shelter, transitional housing, rental
assistance, and the wrap-around health and stabilization services they need to get back on their feet.
If this funding is allowed to lapse, it would pull the rug out from under programs that are finally starting to gain
traction. We cannot afford to lose momentum or let our most vulnerable neighbors including families, kupuna,
and individuals dealing with health challenges fall through the cracks.
Solving our housing and homelessness challenges is not easy, but having dedicated, local funding streams like
the HHF is an essential part of the puzzle. I urge you to keep this vital program going so we can continue
building a safer, more stable future for everyone who calls Hawaii Island home.
Mahalo for your time, your hard work, and your continued leadership on this issue.
Mahalo,
Rodney A. Kawaiaea Jr
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