In partnership with Ko Olina, Ark of Safety, Hawai‘i Affordable Properties Inc., and Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, the Hale Wai Vista community gathered on Saturday, November 22nd for a festive and joy-filled Thanksgiving FEAST.
The day began early as volunteers set up tents, tables, chairs, and decorations to welcome residents. By 10:30 a.m., families began to arrive—eager to enjoy a day of food, fellowship, and community spirit.
Ko Olina generously provided a delicious Thanksgiving meal, while Ark of Safety hosted the event and delivered uplifting entertainment. Their music, dance, and drama skits—rooted in lived experiences—brought inspiration and connection to attendees.
The popular Little Country Store offered household donations for families, and student volunteers from HPU and UH Hilo spent the day providing free blood pressure checks and sharing helpful health information with residents.
Excitement stayed high thanks to raffle giveaways sponsored by Tamura Store in Wai‘anae and Ark of Safety. Ten raffle rounds sent many home with bags of rice, cases of saimin and soda, and large shoyu bottles—each winner sharing words of gratitude.
By the end of the day, 185 Hale Wai Vista residents were served, fed, and uplifted.
Since 2012, Catholic Charities Hawai‘i community-based support services has helped hundreds of residents living at Hale Wai Vista receive additional support through the Akahai E Komo Mai program, strengthening families’ financial stability, emotional wellbeing, and cultural grounding through personalized support and education.
In partnership with Ko Olina, Ark of Safety, Hawai‘i Affordable Properties Inc., and other community partners, CCH continues to build a stronger, healthier, and more connected Hale Wai Vista community.
