Message from Rachel and Corbett
Aloha,
The news has been difficult on every front: the continuing COVID-19 health crisis, the economic challenges resulting from the sudden halt of all activity, the strain placed upon so many nonprofits responsible for delivering critical services to community members, and the upheaval for school systems and students. In addition, the nation is struggling to reconcile with and heal the historical racial injustice so vividly and painfully symbolized by the violent deaths of men and women that demand accountability and action. The Foundation stands with Black Lives Matter, including calls to actively, tangibly pursue racial equity and healing, and for more information, we invite you to read our statement regarding this critical moment for society.
In Hawai‘i, the COVID-19 economic impacts deepen the inequities experienced by our most vulnerable community members. Before the pandemic, Hawaiʻi was already experiencing a crisis: 48 percent of households in the state were living paycheck to paycheck, and most nonprofits that serve them had fewer than three months of operating reserves. New Aloha United Way and Hawai‘i Data Collaborative projections show that 59 percent of Hawai‘i households will experience significant financial hardship by the end of 2020.
At the same time, this crisis has highlighted the resilience of our island communities. Collaboration across sectors and support for the community-based organizations that understand and serve our state’s most vulnerable residents have produced models for recovery and strengthening our state. The Foundation’s COVID-19 response—focusing on diverse communities across our islands—is designed to help meet urgent needs while also contributing to a stronger, more resilient Hawai‘i in the long-term. We have also highlighted the Foundation’s COVID-19 grants in Hawai‘i below.
We know the challenges and changes our communities face are far from over, but we find strength in our ability to work together, support each other, and stand by one another. Mahalo for your continued partnership and your dedication to helping Hawai‘i move toward a brighter future.
|
