For many families on Hawaiʻi Island, accessing support isn’t always simple. Whether you live in Puna, Kaʻū, Hilo, Honokaʻa, or one of the many rural areas in between, getting from Point A to Point B isn’t always as simple as hopping in the car. Transportation can be limited. Long distances, rising costs, and the daily challenges of work and parenting can make it hard to get to services.
At Neighborhood Place of Puna (NPP), we understand this. That’s why we’re so excited to introduce something we’ve been working on behind the scenes — a project that brings support and resources right to the places families already gather.
Meet the Mobile Family Resource Center (MFRC)
Think of it as a Family Resource Center on wheels — a bright, welcoming van filled with supplies, tools, and trained staff who can help families navigate whatever they’re facing. Instead of asking families to come to us, we’re coming to you.
The Mobile Family Resource Center is designed for Hawaiʻi Island families with minor children who could use a little extra support, whether that’s emergency basics, help finding housing, parenting guidance, or simply someone to talk story with who understands.
This is the same free, confidential, strength-based support you’d get in our Keaʻau Resource Center, now made easier and more accessible than ever.
Why Go Mobile?
Some families can’t make it to our in-person Family Resource Center. Maybe the car is down. Maybe parents are working multiple jobs. Maybe there’s no gas money this week.
By bringing the Mobile Resource Center directly into neighborhoods, schools, and community spaces, we remove one of the biggest barriers to support: getting there.
This means more families can be connected to the resources they need earlier, before things become crises.
What the Mobile Family Resource Center Offers
Our MFRC van is fully stocked and ready to serve. Here’s what families can expect when they visit:
Emergency Supplies
- Diapers
- Wipes
- Hygiene products
- Other essential items for keiki and caregivers
These concrete supports may seem simple, but they make an immediate difference in a family’s day-to-day stress.
Computer & Phone Access
Need to apply for a job? Look for housing? Submit benefits paperwork?
We’ve got you covered. You’ll be able to access technology that helps you get things done.
Case Management & Resource Navigation
Our trained staff can help you: identify your goals, understand what supports are available, and connect with the right resources quickly.
We work with partners across Hawaiʻi County, so if there’s something you need, we can help you find the right fit.
Parenting Support
Parenting is beautiful, but it’s also hard.
Through the MFRC, families can access:
- one-on-one coaching
- parenting classes
- talk-story sessions
- tips for navigating challenges with keiki
Our approach is strength-based, meaning we focus on what families are already doing right and build from there.
Housing Support Navigation
If your family is experiencing homelessness or is at risk of losing housing, you’re not alone.
We can guide you through the process of finding shelter or temporary assistance, applying for rental programs, and understanding what steps you can take to move toward safe, stable housing.
Supporting Families, Strengthening Communities
Every neighborhood on Hawaiʻi Island deserves access to support. By making services mobile, we make sure families who need a little extra help can get it without unnecessary barriers.
And beyond the services themselves, the MFRC is about connection. It’s about showing up, talking story, building trust, and reminding families that they’re not isolated in their challenges.
Where You’ll Find Us
You’ll start seeing the Mobile Family Resource Center out in the community at schools, community centers, events, and pop-up locations around the island. Our staff will be there to greet you, offer support, and share resources.
To find out where the MFRC will be next, keep an eye on our website, Instagram & Facebook, flyers and announcements in local schools and partner organizations.
We’re excited to meet you out in the community.
Every family deserves a safe, stable, and nurturing home — and every parent deserves support as they work to provide that. The Mobile Family Resource Center is our way of taking another step toward that future.
We can’t wait for you to experience this new resource and see how it helps strengthen our island families, one neighborhood at a time.
If you have questions or want to learn more, we’re here for you. Reach out anytime at 808-965-5550.