Organization aids the foster care community on Maui.What do you get when you combine a deeply heartfelt attitude of caring for Maui’s children with the practical skills and dedication that can foster lasting benefits for those in need?
The answer, here in Maui County, is Keiki Kokua, a charitable nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that provides much-needed services to an important sector of Maui’s children, and to the families who raise and nurture them.
On Saturday, May 10, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Maui residents will have an opportunity to participate in a special benefit event at the Maui Tropical Plantation to boost the outreach efforts of Keiki Kokua.
The evening, billed as a “Celebration of Super Heroes” in foster care and adoption, will feature island-style music by Hawai‘i’s own singer-songwriter Paula Fuga. Fuga, an ‘ukulele student of legendary Ray Sakuma and now a nationally acclaimed rising star, emerged from humble roots on O‘ahu. She is no stranger to adversity: as a child, she was placed in foster care, then raised by her grandparents.
In addition to the wonderful entertainment, this unique fundraiser will feature a sumptuous buffet prepared with fresh, locally grown produce. There will also be a large silent auction with a myriad of valuable items and services up for bidding.
Keiki Kokua offers emotional and social support in innovative ways to children in “out of home of origin” placements, as well as to their families. Some of the organization’s outreach projects include:
- Kokua Line, a phone service offering foster parents support and referral services.
- Respite Program, linking families with nearby caregivers.
- Scholarship Fund, giving foster youth who exit the foster care system at age 18 a chance to attend a Hawai‘i college or vocational school.
- Luggage Drive for foster children who would otherwise be moving from home to home with their belongings in garbage bags.
- Free Service Listing of goods and services donated to foster families by community businesses.
- Newsletter, Website and Blog for foster families.
All of Keiki Kokua’s services are provided free of charge to the foster care and adoption community.
Just one of the organization’s many events is the annual Free Pizza Party at Baldwin Beach Park. Last year’s party, held on a perfect Maui day, was a joyful celebration of the indomitable spirit of Keiki Kokua “regulars” and participants from the community. Wrapped in the aroma of fresh pizza, the euphoric scene was dotted with magician’s antics, face painting, sports and games.
In these times of fractured families and social isolation, Keiki Kokua shines forth as a pioneer in addressing society’s urgent need for providing accessible and effective ways of supporting young people—hopefully in their evolution into healthy, responsible adults. The organization’s focus is multi-faceted, its initiatives aimed not only at the displaced children, but also at the adults who can make a difference in their lives.
Tickets for the gala fundraiser on May 10 are $75 per person, or $600 for a table of eight. Call 573-4972 for reservations or email keikikokua@hawaii.rr.com. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.keikikokua.org or call 573-4972.