August is National Wellness Month, a time to pause and reflect on what it really means to be well. For some, wellness might bring to mind images of yoga mats, green smoothies, or time at the gym. While those things are wonderful, at Neighborhood Place of Puna (NPP), we believe wellness is a holistic journey encompassing mental, physical, emotional, and yes, even housing wellness. And most importantly, we strive to ensure wellness is within reach for every person and every ʻohana here on Hawaiʻi Island.
Wellness Starts with Stability
It’s nearly impossible to focus on your health when you don’t know where you’ll sleep at night or how you’ll put food on the table. For many families and individuals in our community, housing instability and financial stress make wellness feel out of reach.
That’s where NPP comes in. Our Family Assessment Center at Hale ʻIki provides temporary emergency shelter for families with children, offering them a safe place to stay while we work together toward stable, permanent housing. Our Homeless Engagement Team (HET) meets people where they are on the street, connecting them with food, resources, and compassionate support. Because wellness begins with stability, and stability begins with housing.
Wellness for Youth
For youth and young adults ages 14 to 24, wellness often begins with simply having a safe space to land. At our Anchor Point Youth Center in downtown Hilo, young people can use computers and Wi-Fi, charge their phones, grab a snack, or just talk to someone who cares. Here, youth find connection, support, and guidance toward housing, education, and employment opportunities. Anchor Point is a drop-in center where young people can begin to imagine a brighter future. You can call or text (808) 745-1199 to get connected with a member of our team!
Wellness Through Connection
Wellness grows in community. Our Coordination Center and Family Resource Center connect families and individuals to free resources that meet immediate needs and reduce stress. The Coordination Center is your go-to destination for assistance. Whether you prefer a friendly chat or text over the phone through our call center or a visit to our new drop-in center in Hilo, we’re here to connect you to valuable community resources. At the Family Resource Center, you can access hygiene supplies, rental and utility assistance, clothing, and family support services. When basic needs are met, families can focus on what matters most — raising their children in safe, stable, and nurturing homes.
A Holistic Approach
We know that wellness doesn’t happen in one area of life alone; it’s the combination of safety, support, health, and community. That’s why our programs are designed to support families and individuals, offering practical resources and compassionate care at every step.
- Housing wellness means moving from unsheltered to stable housing.
- Emotional wellness means feeling supported through family services and youth programs.
- Physical wellness is supported when families have access to food, shelter, and basic supplies.
- Mental wellness grows when stress is reduced, dignity is honored, and people know they’re not alone.
Wellness is Always Within Reach
As we close out National Wellness Month, we’re reminded that wellness is not a luxury; it’s a right. And it becomes possible when we, as a community, care for one another. At NPP, we’re committed to making sure that every family, individual, and youth on Hawaiʻi Island knows that help is here, resources are available, and wellness is always within reach.
If you or someone you know could use support, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Call or text (808) 501-1413 to get connected with a friendly Community Resource Navigator.