For many kūpuna, the holidays can feel quiet and lonely — especially for those who live alone or don’t have large family gatherings. Wanting to create a place filled with warmth, friendship, and Christmas spirit, Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center Program Director Susie Chun Oakland helped bring back a special tradition this year: a festive Christmas brunch held on December 23, 2025, filled with food, music, and aloha.
What began two years ago as a simple breakfast gathering for about 100 participants has grown into a beloved celebration. This year, 197 seniors signed up — a beautiful testament to how much the event means to the community. Some attendees shared that they have no other Christmas festivities, while others chose to spend part of their holiday season here simply because they wanted to be with friends, laugh, talk story, and feel the joy of togetherness.
The brunch buffet was a true labor of love. Susie’s sister, Jeanne Chun, spent days baking and preparing delicious dishes, while her father, Phil Chun, made his famous apricot nectar spam — a crowd favorite. Her brother, Randall, even took time off work to serve seniors throughout the morning. In all, the Chun family invested countless hours, resources, and aloha to ensure everyone felt cared for and welcomed.
Support also came from generous partners and community friends:
- Hawaii Foodservice Alliance provided eggs, milk, and tortillas
- Starbucks (Aldrinana, Madi, and Melissa) provided hot water, tea, and coffee supplies
- Kahai Street Kitchen donated paper goods
- John Teruya of Pagoda prepared scrambled eggs and bacon at a deep discount
- Senator Mazie Hirono stopped by with door prizes, U.S. Senate calendars, and three trays of cookies
Kūpuna contributed just $5 if they were able, helping offset food costs while ensuring the event stayed accessible to everyone. The result? A warm, abundant brunch spread featuring breakfast strata, hash brown casserole, freshly baked banana bread, fruit, apricot nectar spam, juices, and more — prepared with love and eight days of dedication by the Chun family.
To make the day even more festive, participants enjoyed two live concerts: a performance by Voices of Aloha and a lively “Oldies but Goodies” show by retired Kamehameha Schools counselors Glenn, Les, and Anna, who regularly share music with the center.
More than just a meal, this gathering was a joyful reminder of community, compassion, and belonging. As laughter filled the room and friends embraced one another, the spirit of Christmas truly came alive at Lanakila Senior Center.
Mahalo to everyone who helped make this celebration possible — proof that when we come together, we create not just events, but cherished holiday memories.
In 2024, Catholic Charities Hawai‘i helped 5,525 kūpuna across the islands stay connected, healthy, and supported — ensuring our seniors continue to live with dignity and aloha.
