Kahua Ola Hou provides a short-term pu'uhonua (safe haven) and kahua ola hou (place of life saving recovery) program to prevent/reduce substance abuse and violence for the Molokai youth and their families. The program is guided by Native Hawaiian values and provides substance abuse, violence prevention, and early intervention services through ho'oponopono (Native Hawaiian mediation).

Reason for Need

Youth on Moloka'i report the highest rate statewide of exposure to siblings' anti-social behaviors including drinking, smoking and using marijuana, taking a gun to school, or being suspended or expelled from school. 51% of the youth report exposure to family alcohol, tobacco and other drug use. Students on Moloka'i were rated second highest in the state for early initiation of problem behaviors and they were the highest for indicating that they currently engage in anti-social behaviors. Teens here also reported the highest rate of associating with best friends who believe it is cool to use drugs and alcohol.

EC Support

Kahua Ola Hou was able to secure the transfer of lands and facility of the old Queen Lili'uokalani Children Center from the Department of Hawaiian Homelands. In conjunction with this support, EC funding was used for the renovation and repairs needed to open the Kahua Ola Hou facility. With the opening and continued operations of Kahua Ola Hou, the facility is able to employ staff in the capacities of house parents, administrative staff, and counselors.

Photo: Kahua Ola Hou opening blessing and ceremony © Remington-Josh Villa