Commit to Keiki - September 2023 Newsletter

RECOVERY SUPPORT FOR MAUI’S YOUNGEST KEIKI

In the months to come, Commit to Keiki will be spotlighting several Maui nonprofits and their efforts to support Maui’s youngest keiki and their families as they recover from the devastating wildfires.

If you’re still looking for ways to give back to those affected by the Maui wildfires, please consider donating to organizations that provide direct services to our youngest keiki on Maui. Click the button below for a list of Maui partners currently accepting donations, including Maui Family Support Services and Maui Early Childhood Resource Center, Imua Family Support Services, `Aha Pūnana Leo, Parents and Children Together Maui, and more.

Maui Partner Donations

STORIES FROM MAUI

The American Academy of Pediatrics printed 900 books for Maui keiki.

There was a Fire, A Story for Young Children on Maui is designed for children ages 3-8 who have been affected by the Maui wildfires, giving them an opportunity to open up about their experience in a creative way. The book weaves in spaces for children to draw about their experiences and for families to create a safety plan.

Download the Book

Volunteers turn former Kīhei Radio Shack into distribution hub for Lahaina Keiki Relief Fund

Maui Now recently published an article about a community effort on Maui to turn a vacant retail space in Kihei into what is now home to the Lahaina Keiki Relief Fund distribution hub. Hundreds of items, including school supplies, clothes, toys, car seats, baby food, and more, are available for Maui families with young keiki.

CLICK HERE to read the Maui Now story.

PANDEMIC-ERA FUNDING FOR CHILDCARE TO END SEPTEMBER 30, 2023

As Sept. 30, 2023 quickly approaches, the expiration of childcare funding through the American Rescue Plan Act will surely cast a shadow of uncertainty over families across the U.S. and in Hawaii. We could potentially see a decline in affordable, quality childcare options, and many families may find themselves having to leave the workplace in order to care for their keiki.

Time Magazine recently published an article about the end of the pandemic-era childcare funding and its potential impacts. Here is an excerpt from the article:

“Experts fear that the loss of additional federal aid could push childcare businesses to charge parents higher rates, making childcare even more unaffordable for parents. And some centers may even be forced to shut down. More than 220,000 childcare providers were supported by federal funding, using the funds towards personnel costs, rent, equipment, and more. But some 70,000 childcare programs could close, causing more than 3 million children to lose their access to care.”

Hoʻoikaika Annual Conference 2023

Thursday, September 28, 2023
8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Learn More