Hawaiian Community Assets (HCA), a statewide nonprofit housing counseling agency, recently concluded its Native Hawaiian Occupancy Ready Program, a collaborative effort with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA). The program delivered crucial support to approximately 2,000 Native Hawaiian families over the past two years. A total of $414,000 in matched savings and housing assistance was provided, helping families overcome obstacles to homeownership. This initiative underscores the critical role non-profits play in supporting local communities.
The initiative provided financial assistance, and also offered essential services like financial literacy training and homebuyer education. This holistic approach is designed to equip families with the necessary tools for long-term financial stability and successful homeownership. Such programs are crucial in a state where the cost of living, particularly housing, presents significant challenges for many residents. HCA's efforts align with the broader mission of organizations like the OHA, which aims to improve the well-being of Native Hawaiians. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs recently partnered with Hawaiian Community Assets, awarding a $1.66 million Community Grant to administer the Kūkulu Kahua Emergency Financial Assistance Program.
Hawaiian Community Assets has a long history of supporting the community. According to their website, HCA has been serving the community for over 20 years, focusing on building the capacity of low- and moderate-income communities Hawaiian Community Assets. The organization has also expanded its web presence to support an increased volume of users, offering a welcoming design and useful links to programs and services Hawaiicommunitylending.com.
The program's success highlights the importance of partnerships between non-profit organizations and governmental bodies in addressing critical community needs. Initiatives like these can have a ripple effect, strengthening the local economy by supporting families and promoting sustainable homeownership. Furthermore, these efforts align with the broader goals of promoting economic self-sufficiency and preserving the cultural heritage of Native Hawaiian communities, an important consideration for investors and developers working in Hawaii's real estate market.
