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2025-02-18

"EC Initiative" Cares for the Youngest Keiki at Liliʻuokalani Trust

In January, Liliʻuokalani Trust (LT) held a blessing for the soft opening of residential units in urban Honolulu. The facility is a pilot project for LT’s Early Childhood Initiative, or "EC Initiative," a collective of programs and services for keiki ages 0-5, and their parents and caregivers.

Among those in attendance at the blessing were Early Childhood Specialists and Social Workers — all LT employees — whose mission is to support keiki and their families through life’s triumphs and trials.

One family receiving support from LT was a young couple raising their toddler on Oʻahu (names withheld for privacy). The father worked a steady-paying job, however his income was not enough to cover expenses. Without permanent housing, the family shuffled between relatives’ homes, “couch surfing,” as the mother sought stable employment.

Families like these benefit from the EC Initiative's programs and services — especially through its signature program called Hoʻokahua.

Translated, Hoʻokahua means “to lay the foundation,” symbolizing the adult’s role in supporting children.

Hoʻokahua offers a variety of services, including parent-child sessions, housing assistance, education, and more, to address the unique challenges of families. Additionally, LT’s Early Childhood Specialists help parents prepare their young keiki for kindergarten, so they can start school with the required academic and social-emotional skills.

Through this two-generational model, the goal of Hoʻokahua is to prevent families from entering systems like child welfare, foster care, and corrections, which often can lead to generational trauma. Hoʻokahua seeks to break these cycles and encourage families to become independent, heal from past wounds, and thrive.

LT’s mission is built upon the legacy of Queen Liliʻuokalani, who, in 1909, penned a deed of trust to ensure the well-being of orphaned and destitute Hawaiian children.

The EC Initiative is a commitment to the Queen’s wish, ensuring that Her youngest keiki are safe, loved, and supported by their caregivers.

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To learn how Liliʻuokalani Trust supports keiki ages 0-5, please visit the Early Childhood Initiative and the Ho’okahua program.