WAIMEA — Homelessness, houselessness, individuals and families struggling on the edge are increasingly of major concern throughout the state, and it’s also true in upcountry Waimea.
But what exactly is homelessness? What are the causes? How help be provided? Is it good to give money to people begging on the corner? What should be done or not done?
These questions will be the main focus of Waimea Community Association’s monthly meeting on Sept. 7 at Waimea School cafeteria.
There are multiple causes and variables of this complex issue, as well as potential solutions. But what might work for one person, may not for others. Waimea Community Association board members want to help educate residents on the issues better through those who work with and for homeless and struggling families every day.
Beginning at 5:15 p.m., a panel discussion will explore a wide range of issues around homelessness. Panel members will include Lance Niimi, Hawaii County’s leader on homelessness from the Office of Housing; Rhonda Bell with Big Island Giving Tree, a nonprofit that provides a range of support and assistance for homeless individuals and families; Brandee Menino, CEO of Hope Services, a not-for-
profit funded by the state and private donors that provides a wide array of outreach services; Jeramy Madrid, an experienced community-based case manager for homeless needing mental health services; Waimea Community Policing Officer May Lee; Tim Bostock, a volunteer co-leader of the weekly Waimea Community Meal at St. James Episcopal Church; and David Willard with the Veterans Administration.
Facilitating the panel will be WCA Vice President Mike Donnelly, who has helped coordinate the presentation with WCA Board Secretary Nancy Carr Smith and WCA Director Frankie Pang. All presenters will describe the services and assistance their organization provides, and share specific calls to action for the community.
Info: Call Patti Cook at 937-2833 or email cookshi@aol.com