Lt. Governor Aiona recently discussed with non-profit organizations in Hawai`i how to better work with faith-based groups to help solve social problems across the state.
He credited such partnerships for already providing
social services such as job training and drug treatment in Hawai‘i,
where faith-based and community organizations are benefiting from an
$8.2 million federal grant administered by the Lingle-Aiona
Administration.
The money is used to support programs ranging
from job training for former prisoners and recovering addicts to
rehabilitation for the poor and homeless. “And it is healing and
strengthening families,” Lt. Governor Aiona told an estimated 200
leaders and volunteers of faith-based and other social service groups
during a conference at Hope Chapel in Kaneohe Bay organized by
Together-Strengthening Our Community Services.
“We live in a
fast-paced world, and it is difficult to find the time to give back to
the community,” Lt. Governor Aiona told the gathering. “That is why we
are so thankful for your commitment to volunteer your time and talent
to serve the people of Hawai‘i through your faith-based and community
organizations.”
Lt. Governor Aiona also recognized faith-based
organizations for their help in feeding the homeless, establishing
transitional shelters and finding permanent, loving homes for c
hildren
in the foster care system.