Over 100 Homeless Keiki Receive Holiday Gifts from Community Donors

Over 100 children experiencing homelessness received special holiday gifts through a partnership between Family Promise of Hawaiʻi and three generous donors: Hawaiian Electric Industries (HEI), Hawaiʻi Life Flight, and Nuʻuanu Congregational Church. 

With family homelessness on the rise, Family Promise partnered with HEI, Hawaiʻi Life Flight, and Nuʻuanu Congregational Church to provide children in its programs with thoughtfully chosen holiday gifts through its Giving Tree initiative, offering moments of joy during an otherwise uncertain and stressful time. Gifts included toys, books, clothes, bikes, and gift cards, helping ensure children experiencing homelessness could still experience the magic of the holiday season. 

“Community giving is a part of HEI's fabric,” said Darcy Endo-Omoto, Vice President, Hawaiian Electric Industries. “Our HEI employees were so happy to come together to support the children and their ohana this holiday season.”  

Local data shows family homelessness has increased 20% over the past two years. At Family Promise of Hawaiʻi, the demand for assistance has grown dramatically, with the organization receiving an average of 10 first-time calls each day from families seeking assistance.  

“On behalf of the families we serve, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to HEI, Hawaiʻi Life Flight, and Nuʻuanu Congregational Church for their compassion, generosity, and commitment to supporting children and families during the holiday season,” said Ryan Catalani, Executive Director of Family Promise of Hawaiʻi. “With rising housing costs and economic pressures impacting more families than ever before, community partnerships like the Giving Tree initiative are critical to meeting immediate needs while offering hope for long-term stability.” 

Family Promise serves families with children who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness, with multiple shelter facilities along with prevention, and stabilization services. So far in 2025, Family Promise has served 2,626 individuals in 962 families on Oʻahu and Maui — a record number for the organization.