Residents demand return of housing grants for struggling kupuna

During a recent government meeting, community members from Molokai voiced urgent concerns regarding housing assistance and infrastructure issues. Leilani Wallace, a resident, highlighted the challenges faced by widows in her area who previously benefited from a grant program through the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) that has since been converted into loans. Wallace emphasized that many residents, particularly the elderly, are struggling to meet the income requirements for these loans, which she described as inadequate for their needs.

Wallace called for the reinstatement of the grant program to provide necessary support for home repairs, particularly for the kupuna (elders) in her community. She expressed frustration over the lack of action from Hawaiian Homes and the ongoing issues related to flooding in her neighborhood, which has been exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure. Residents have been waiting for relocation plans since 2017, with no clear timeline provided.

The meeting underscored the pressing need for effective housing solutions and support for vulnerable populations in Molokai, as community members seek assistance to improve their living conditions and address the impacts of environmental challenges.