Community leaders unite to empower Molokai residents

In a vibrant gathering on Molokai, trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) convened for their annual community meeting, emphasizing their commitment to local residents and the unique challenges they face. The meeting, attended both in person and virtually, featured heartfelt introductions from trustees, who expressed their gratitude for the community's support and resilience, particularly in light of recent hardships faced by the Lahaina area due to devastating fires.

Trustee Luana Alapa, representing Molokai and Lanai, highlighted the importance of community engagement, inviting residents to share their thoughts and concerns. The trustees, including those from Oahu and Kauai, acknowledged the beauty and strength of the Molokai community, with Trustee Keili'i Akina noting that his visits to the island have been among his most cherished experiences.

Stacy Ferreira, the new Kapohana (CEO) of OHA, introduced herself and her team, emphasizing their dedication to serving the community. She presented the Molokai community report, which outlines demographic information, challenges, and opportunities for the island. Ferreira announced that OHA is currently supporting 16 active grantees on Molokai, distributing over $618,000 in funding, alongside more than $500,000 in loans to local residents.

Key legislative efforts were also discussed, including support for a bill aimed at ensuring accountability regarding the future of Kalaupapa, which is awaiting the governor's signature. Additionally, OHA is advocating for funding for medical transport services, a critical need for the island's residents.

The meeting concluded with community presentations, including a showcase by local designer Kanoe Lani Davis, who shared her passion for preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture through her work. The trustees expressed their eagerness to listen to the community's needs and foster a collaborative spirit moving forward.