MAUI RECOVERY SPOTLIGHT

Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Hawaiʻi

Commit to Keiki’s Maui Recovery Spotlight Series highlights local organizations and nonprofits that have been working to ensure that Maui’s youngest keiki and their families receive the support and resources they need in the wake of the devastating wildfires.

Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Hawaiʻi

Q&A with Sunny Chen, Chief Executive Officer

Q: What is your organization’s role in helping families with young children who’ve been affected by the wildfires on Maui? What was your immediate response after the fires?
A: On Day 2 of the fires, Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies (HMHB) was immediately shipping out baby essentials such as food, diapers and wipes. By Day 3 of the fires, HMHB staff were physically present in Lahaina and our mobile clinic from Oʻahu was on its way to Maui. We felt the need to provide as much support as we possibly could. As a result of our connections with different organizations, we were able to provide first aid, medications, diapers, lactation support, and mental health support right away.

Q: What are the current needs of families with young children on Maui?
A: The current needs of families with young children on Maui are housing, financial stability, access to clinical care, food security, and mental health support.

Q: What are your needs in order to continue to provide services to families with young children on Maui in the long term?
A: We need more staffing and sustainable funding to continue providing consistent, quality care to Maui families affected by the Lahaina fires. We also need to build stronger relationships with other community organizations and nonprofits, and work together to better serve the Maui community.

MEET COMMIT TO KEIKI’S NEW POLICY LEAD PEGGY MIERZWA

As the Early Childhood Action Strategy (ECAS) Policy Lead, Peggy will support the ECAS Network and Commit to Keiki with its policy needs; maintain key relationships with partner policy and advocacy organizations; and engage in outreach, education and relationship building with candidates and elected officials.

Peggy has more than 10 years of experience in lobbying, advocacy, and relationship building. She most recently served as the Director of Policy and Advocacy for Hawaii Public Health Institute. She has also held policy related roles with AlohaCare, BT Advocates, PhARMA, and Blue Zones Project. She managed the offices of Senator Roz Baker from 2014-2017. Peggy received her master’s degree in education from Ohio University.

SUMMER BONDING: FUN TIPS TO STRENGTHEN CONNECTIONS AND CREATE LASTING MEMORIES

Summer break provides a unique opportunity to strengthen the bond with your keiki through shared experiences and quality time together. It’s a time to step away from the usual routine and engage in activities that promote bonding and create lasting memories.

Here are some fun Ideas for summer bonding:

Outdoor Adventures: Explore nature together by going on hikes, picnics in the park, or visiting the beach. These outdoor activities encourage physical activity while allowing for meaningful conversations and shared discoveries.
Creative Projects: Engage in arts and crafts sessions at home. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or making DIY projects, these activities promote creativity and provide a relaxed atmosphere for bonding.
Cooking Together: Involve your keiki in meal preparation. Let them choose recipes, shop for ingredients, and assist in cooking. It’s a fun way to teach them valuable life skills while bonding over delicious meals.
Family Game Nights: Organize game nights with board games, puzzles, or outdoor games like frisbee or soccer. Friendly competition and teamwork can strengthen family bonds and create joyful memories.
Reading Time: Set aside time each day to read books together. Let your keiki pick their favorite stories or explore new genres. Reading not only enhances their literacy skills, but also provides opportunities for meaningful discussions.

CLICK HERE for HONOLULU Family’s 2024 Hawai‘i Summer Programs Guide.

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