Ho`ōla Nā Pua’s 2018 Impact: Reaching Over 26,000 in Hawaii

As we look back on last year, we see a collection of moments through brightly colored drawings, children at their school desks, and shovels in dirt. These are moments in time when individuals in our community connected with Ho`ōla Nā Pua. Each year we grow to meet the needs of our community.  Last year we were able to reach more youth in juvenile facilities, students in new school districts, and we broke ground on Pearl Haven, our future residential campus for survivors.

In 2018, we reached over 26,000 people with our mission and connected with community stakeholders who are joining in to be part of the solution.  The problem of sex trafficking requires us to surround our keiki with support. This has meant an expansion of our programs in order to reach more keiki and the adults in their lives.

We seek to prevent sex trafficking and travel to schools island-wide to provide education to students on this issue.  We found that 3 out of 4 of students received an education on sex trafficking for the first time through our presentations.  Also, almost every student walks forward into their lives with the confidence that they can recognize the warning signs of a trafficking situation.  We also provide training to professionals and first responders on identification and response to exploitation so that children can then receive the attention and care they need.

Mentorships are a core focus for us as we know that it plays a significant role in recovery from psychological trauma.  OurStarfish Mentoring Program connects a child who has been exploited (or is at high risk of being exploited) to a vetted, extensively trained caring adult to help guide them toward healing, restoration, and successful social reintegration.  In addition, we provide group mentoring activities in juvenile facilities to equip youth with empowerment tools that will serve as protective factors when they are discharged. In these settings, youth are encouraged to participate in art activities, lie giving a ‘weather report’ on their mood at the beginning and end of the group session.

We are often invited to speak at community presentations, including conferences and workshops.  Last year alone, we presented at 42 unique venues to raise awareness on the issue of sex trafficking and exploitation. We often meet parents and community members who want to learn more about how to take action on this important issue.

Do you want to learn more about Ho`ola Na Pua and have us present at your place or work or at an event?  Please contact us at events@hoolanapua.org.

In 2018 we broke ground on the Pearl Haven Campus.  This will be the future residence of up to 32 girls who have been sexually exploited.  They will receive a comprehensive program for healing, including the possibility of therapy, mental and physical health care, and educational needs.  We are currently under construction and have raised 60% of the capital needed to open the doors to Pearl Haven.

Thank you to our supporters who have made this work possible.  To get involved as a volunteer, advocate, or contributor, please visit hoolanapua.org.