IHS’ Homeward Bound
What: In partnership with the Punahou School Girls’ Cross Country Team, The Institute for Human Services, or IHS, will conduct its annual Thanksgiving Day Fun Run with over 300 participants expected in attendance. Organizers of the 16-year tradition aim to raise $50,000 to benefit Hawaiʻi’s homeless individuals and families. Later that same day, IHS will host family dinner across its shelter and kauhale sites.
When: Thursday, Nov. 27; Race starts at 8 a.m.
Where: Mānoa Valley District Park
Helping Hands Hawai’i Adopt a Family Wishing Tree
What: Select an ornament from various trees across Oʻahu and help purchase gifts to a family in need.
When: Dates and locations vary; check here for updated list.
“The holidays can be a difficult time for families who are already struggling, but the generosity of our donors reminds us that our community is stronger together,” said Susan Furuta, president and CEO of Helping Hands Hawai‘i, in a statement. “Each wish fulfilled reflects the compassion that makes Hawaii a place where people care for one another, especially in times of need.”
The organization is also seeking Adopt a Family volunteers through December. Interested? Email volunteer@helpinghandshawaii.org.
Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi and Ward Village’s Ward Senior Giving Project
What: Select an ornament with a kūpuna’s wish from trees at Ward Village. (In total, there are 450 wishes needing to be filled.)
Where: The trees are located at Logos Bookstore in Ward Centre, Whole Foods Market (2nd-level parking entry), and TJ Maxx (3rd level).
When: Until Dec. 8. More information here.
“Each year, we are moved by the outpouring of aloha from our community for our seniors,” said Catholic Charities Hawai‘i CEO and President Tina Andrade, in a statement. “We’re especially thankful to Howard Hughes Communities for sponsoring the Ward Senior Giving Tree, and to their wonderful staff who volunteer their time to wrap gifts. We also thank The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for picking up and delivering gifts to our campus, and the Notre Dame Club of Hawai‘i for helping with gift wrapping. Together, they make this project a celebration of compassion and giving.”
Find one of the Ward Senior Giving Trees this year at Logos Bookstore in Ward Centre. (Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi)
Salvation Army’s Angel Tree
What: Give gifts to local keiki, kūpuna, and families in need in your community through The Salvation Army Hawaiian & Pacific Islands Division’s Angel Tree Program.
When: November through December
Where: Walmart, Central Pacific Bank, Ala Moana Center, Kahala Mall, Pearlridge Center and Windward Mall, along with other participating small businesses. More information at angeltreehawaii.org.
“Angel Tree reminds us that compassion can transform the holidays for families who might otherwise go without,” said Charmaine Hauanio-Kuewa, Divisional Director of Development in a statement. “Behind every tag is a story: a parent striving to provide for their children, a kūpuna hoping to feel remembered, a child wishing for something special under the tree. Each gift shared is a message of aloha that lets them know they’re not alone.”
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Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros can be reached at kelsey@alohastatedaily.com.
