Photo By Master Sgt. Mysti Bicoy | U.S. Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve and Community leaders visit the...... read more read more
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Waiʻanae, Hawaii — In a collaborative effort to address houselessness on Oʻahu, the Air National Guard, in partnership with the Marine Corps, Air Force Reserve Command, and Dynamic Community Solutions came together to construct permanent housing for residents in Waiʻanae. This mission, which began in June 2024, aims to provide stability and shelter for those living unhoused in the Puʻuhonua O‘ Wai‘anae village.
Over 300 Department of Defense personnel have participated in this construction mission, which is scheduled to continue through September 2024. The project will not only benefit the community but also serve as a valuable training opportunity for military personnel, offering over 20,000 training hours and fulfilling 8,000 critical Air Force training tasks.
The mission is part of the Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) program, which allows Guardsmen to collaborate with general contractors, train together, and serve alongside their local communities. The 154th Wing Civil Engineering Squadron from the Hawaii Air National Guard has played a key role in providing both logistical and service support throughout the IRT mission, ensuring the smooth execution of construction and training activities. Additionally, they had the opportunity to send members to participate in an IRT program in Arizona, gaining valuable out-of-state experience.
"The IRT program is invaluable because it allows us to train in unique locations, using resources from both the DoD and local communities to build partnerships and expand our knowledge," said Senior Master Sgt. Brad Wilson, deputy program manager. "It’s more than just training; it’s about being present in communities where we might not usually go. We’re proud of this program and eager to work with our joint partners to help strengthen the communities we serve."
Puʻuhonua O‘ Wai‘anae, located on the leeward side of Oʻahu near the Wai‘anae Small Boat Harbor, is home to approximately 200 individuals, including keiki (children), kūpuna (respected elders), and working families, with two-thirds of the population being Native Hawaiian. The community, once guided by the late Twinkle Borge, has built a unique and self-sustaining village rooted in traditional Hawaiian values of kuleana (responsibility) and communal care.
The initiative to build permanent housing for the village began in 2018 when the community, facing potential eviction by the State, sought to secure a stable future. With the intervention of former State Governor, David Ige, and subsequent fundraising efforts, the community was able to acquire a 20-acre site in Waiʻanae Valley in 2020. This land, nestled near Mt. Ka‘ala, will serve as the location for the new Mauka Village, which is expected to house nearly 300 residents upon completion.
During the current construction phases, DoD personnel are focused on building 14 hales (homes) and initiating work on a Hale Aina (kitchen/bathroom) as part of the site master plan. The new village will combine modern amenities with traditional Hawaiian communal living, providing a sustainable and regenerative agricultural community for its residents.
The impact of this project is expected to be significant, offering shelter and stability to approximately 250 people, or about 10 percent of the island’s houseless population. The development costs, operating expenses, and rents are projected to be lower than those of conventional affordable housing, making Puʻuhonua O‘ Wai‘anae a model for future communities across Hawaii and potentially the entire United States.
Waiʻanae, with a population of 51,965 according to the 2020 Census, has a rich history rooted in agriculture, though government employment and tourism now dominate its economy. The area faces social challenges, including a poverty rate of 18.5 percent and a median household income of $79,575. The construction of the Mauka Village is seen as a critical step toward alleviating these challenges by providing much-needed housing and support to the community’s most vulnerable members.
Capt. Theresa Bowie, project manager, emphasized that the military's efforts have been highly impactful and appreciated. "As of July 31st, Airmen have accumulated over 17,000 training hours, resulting in a cost savings of more than $877,000 for our community partners," Bowie said. "Consider the number of lives we are positively affecting with our investment. Ultimately, we anticipate saving our community partners a million dollars."
Capt. Bowie also expressed a deep appreciation for the opportunity to engage with the local community and immerse their team in Hawaiian culture. "Along with the chance to train in the local community, our personnel have worked closely with local contractors and adopted the phrase, 'E Ala! E Alu! E Kuilima!' which means 'Up! Together! Join hands!' This phrase embodies the cultural essence of unity and collaboration," Bowie said. "It's a call for us to unite, join hands, and engage in our mission daily. It is deeply rooted in the community's cultural values."
This military-led initiative highlights the power of collaboration between government, military, and community organizations in tackling complex social issues. As the Mauka Village nears completion, it stands as a testament to the dedication and effort of those involved in creating a brighter future for the residents of Waiʻanae.
| Date Taken: | 08.01.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 09.02.2024 21:27 |
| Story ID: | 479905 |
| Location: | WAIANAE, HAWAII, US |
| Web Views: | 109 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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