Commit to Keiki’s Maui Recovery Spotlight Series highlights local organizations and nonprofits dedicated to supporting Maui’s youngest keiki and their families affected by the devastating wildfires last year. As our last spotlight of 2024, we are pleased to highlight the incredible work of Family Hui Hawai‘i and their efforts to bring holiday cheer to Maui residents.
On Tuesday, December 10, Family Hui Hawaiʻi hosted a special event for Maui residents – A Very Hui Holiday. Held at the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, this special gathering welcomed nearly 100 families, including 141 keiki aged 0-5, who came from across the island—Upcountry, Kihei, Lahaina, and beyond—with transportation arranged for attendees from Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Shelter and Malama Family Recovery Center.
Attendees enjoyed a range of activities designed to inspire joy and connection. Families gathered for Keiki Imagination Adventure Storytime, explored a sensory play space, and embraced their creativity through holiday crafts like decorating wooden ornaments and making sensory ball ornaments, a clear favorite among the keiki. The celebration also featured lively music and movement sessions with Uncle Wayne and the Howling Dog Band, a festive photo booth perfect for capturing memories, and a raffle that delighted participants with fun prizes.
What made this event especially meaningful was the collaborative effort of 15 partner organizations, including Child and Family Services, Maui Family Support Services, Maui Humane Society, PATCH Maui, Keiki O Ka `Āina, Partners in Development, Imua Family Services, and the Hawaii Department of Education – Yes Project, among others.
Family Hui Hawaiʻi’s commitment to nurturing young keiki and strengthening parent-child bonds was evident in every detail. This year’s event is just the beginning of what they hope will become an annual tradition, bringing light and hope to Maui families.