As students across Hawaiʻi prepared to return to the classroom, Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi (CCH) and community partners came together on July 29 to ensure children living at Maili Land Permanent Housing and the Family Assessment Center had the supplies and support they needed for a successful school year.
Held at the Maili Land courtyard on the Waiʻanae Coast, the annual Back to School Event served the 65 children living at the two Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi housing programs. Families enjoyed a fun day filled with games, activities, food, and opportunities to connect with organizations offering educational and family resources.
In addition to receiving backpacks and school supplies, children were able to choose from donated new shoes, slippers, and personal care items, helping families prepare for more than just the first day of school.
Thanks to the generosity of Supercuts Hawaii, volunteer stylists provided free haircuts throughout the event, helping students head back to school looking and feeling their best. The donated services gave children an extra boost of confidence as they prepared for the first day of class.
Students Serving Students
A special highlight of this year’s event was the support of 50 high school students from Mukwonago, Wisconsin, who traveled to Hawaiʻi as part of a church summer mission trip. The group, which included 66 participants, spent the day volunteering alongside Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi staff.
The students helped set up the event, welcomed families, distributed supplies, assisted with games and activities, and helped ensure every child had a positive experience. Their enthusiasm and willingness to serve made a lasting impression on the families and staff alike.
Community Partners Making a Difference
The Back to School Event was made possible through the generosity and collaboration of community organizations dedicated to supporting children and families throughout the Waiʻanae Coast.
Mahalo to our participating partners:
- INPEACE
- HCAP
- After-School All-Stars
- Parent Child Development Center
- Hawaiʻi State Department of Education
- Kamehameha Schools
- Leeward Community College
- Paradise Chapel Assembly of God
- Mākaha Community Center
These organizations shared valuable information on educational opportunities, early childhood programs, after-school activities, family support services, and higher education resources, helping connect families with services that extend well beyond the start of the school year.
A special mahalo also goes to Supercuts Hawaii for donating its hairstylists, Sen. Samantha DeCorte for providing hot dogs, and Rep. Chris Muraoka for donating bottled water. Their generosity helped create a welcoming and enjoyable day for everyone.
Supporting Families Beyond the School Year
Maili Land Permanent Housing and the Family Assessment Center are operated by Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi’s Housing Stability Services. Together, the programs provide stable housing, case management, financial resiliency education, housing counseling, and supportive services that help families build brighter futures.
While events like the Back to School celebration help children begin the school year prepared, the need for community support continues throughout the year.
Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi is currently seeking donations of:
- Household cleaning supplies and toiletries
- Non-perishable food items
- Bed sheets and pillowcases
These donations help families maintain safe, stable homes while they work toward long-term independence.
Mahalo to every volunteer, donor, community partner, and supporter who made this year’s Back to School Event possible. Together, we are helping Hawaiʻi’s children begin the school year with confidence and reminding families that they are supported by a caring community every step of the way.
