Neighborhood Place of Puna (NPP) has always been a small organization with a big heart, and in 2024, that heart touched so many lives across Hawaiʻi Island.
In 2024, we had the privilege of working alongside families, keiki, and individuals navigating some of life’s toughest challenges. While it’s easy to focus on the numbers, behind each statistic is a real person — a neighbor, a parent, a child — whose life has been changed. These numbers tell a story of hope, resilience, and what’s possible when a community comes together to uplift one another.
Families First
This past year, we supported 1,209 families — that’s over a thousand households who turned to us for guidance, stability, and care. Of those, 1,205 were Native Hawaiian families, a reminder of the importance of uplifting our island’s Indigenous communities and preserving the strength of ʻohana.
And at the heart of every family are the keiki (children). In 2024, the families we served included 2,748 children. That’s nearly 3,000 young lives impacted—children who now have more stability, access to resources, and a stronger foundation for their future. Whether it’s helping parents find housing, connecting families with resources, or just showing up to listen, we are committed to ensuring that our keiki have the support they deserve.
From Homelessness to Housing
One of the biggest challenges for so many on our island is finding a safe place to live. In 2024, we helped 282 households move from homelessness to stable housing. That’s 282 families who don’t have to wonder where they’ll sleep tonight or if they’ll have a roof over their heads tomorrow.
We also worked with 1,739 houseless participants, offering services, support, and connections to resources that move people closer to stability. Each of these interactions is more than just a number—it’s a step toward dignity, security, and hope.
Meeting the Community’s Needs
Life doesn’t always go as planned, and sometimes, a little help can make all the difference. In response to the ongoing housing crisis, NPP partnered with the County of Hawaiʻi to launch the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, a vital initiative designed to help local households who faced economic hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this program, we disbursed an incredible $1,535,915.74 in direct rental assistance, ensuring that families could stay housed and avoid the devastating cycle of homelessness.
For families already experiencing homelessness at our Hale ‘Iki emergency shelter, our Rapid Re-Housing program provided $75,063.38 in funds to help them secure stable housing. This program doesn’t just offer temporary relief — it’s designed to help families move from shelters into permanent homes by covering essential costs like security deposits, rent, and utility assistance.
And at our Coordination Center, we answered 2,659 assistance requests and provided 6,574 referrals, connecting individuals with services that could change their lives. It’s more than just answering a phone or sending an email — it’s about being there, being present, and making sure no one feels alone in their time of need.
Ending Homelessness is a Community Effort
Homelessness isn’t a problem one organization can solve alone — it takes all of us working together. That’s why, in 2024, in partnership with Community Alliance Partners and the County of Hawaiʻi, we hosted the Excellence in Practice training series — a yearlong opportunity to learn, connect, and take action toward ending homelessness.
This series welcomed 151 participants — from community members and housing advocates to service providers — all united in the mission to create meaningful change. Because when we share knowledge and work together, we move closer to a future where everyone on Hawaiʻi Island has a place to call home.
Beyond the Numbers
At the heart of all these statistics are real people. Families who can finally breathe easier because they have a stable home. Parents who can see a brighter future for their children. Kupuna (elders) who feel supported, valued, and cared for. These are the stories that remind us why we do this work.
As we step into 2025, we’re more committed than ever to keep showing up, rolling up our sleeves, advocating for housing solutions, and building a Hawaiʻi Island where every ʻohana has the opportunity to thrive.
If you or someone you know is in need of resources, please reach out to our Coordination Center by calling or texting (808) 501-1413.