The Kahiau Project Aims to be a Source of Joy This Holiday Season

 

Despite the challenges that COVID-19 has thrown us this year, the Kahiau Project is still trying to ensure that all Lanai families have a merry and bright Christmas. In the past, the organization provided gifts from the angel tree; however, COVID-19 safety precautions have forced the gift-giving to take on a slightly different format. This year, there will be no keiki wish lists; instead, recipients will receive gift certificates and gift cards through the mail. Through these donations, ohana will be able to meet household needs and fulfill children’s holiday wishes.

With the new format and the holiday season right around the corner, the Kahiau Project is starting early on its Christmas campaign.

“The Kahiau Project is hoping to bring joy to families who have had an extra stressful year,” said Sgt. Kimberly Masse, project founder for Kahiau Project. “Although we had to change up the way we do our applications and gifts, we are doing our best to keep the spirit of Kahiau alive and help the community during these challenging times.”

How do I apply for the Kahiau Project?

Ohana may apply to be recipients of the Kahiau Project by emailing Lanaikahiauproject@outlook.com. Please provide a full name in the email, the number of people in your family, explanation of income situation, and a reason for requesting assistance, along with a current phone number and P.O. Box number.

Applicants must provide all information listed above before the November 1st deadline for consideration.

How do I give to the Kahiau Project?

If you’d like to support Lanai families in need, the Kahiau Project welcomes monetary and gift card donations.

Monetary donations

Please make checks payable to “Lanai Art Center” and note Kahiau Project in the memo section of your check. Please include a note with your name, mailing address, and email address to receive a tax letter.

Checks can mailed to the police station:

c/o Maui Police Department — Lanai Police Station

P.O. Box 630626

Lanai City, HI 96763

Gift card donations

Donors may drop off gift cards to the Santa Mailbox in the Lanai Police Station lobby. Please attach your name, mailing address, email address, and the gift card’s cost so the Kahiau Project can send you a tax letter. If you prefer to purchase e-gift cards, please e-mail them to Lanaikahiauproject@outlook.com along with the information above.

Please try to support local Lanai businesses first, by purchasing gift cards from them if possible.  Gift cards from online retailers like Target or Amazon are welcomed, but please check which online retailers ship to Lanai at reasonable rates or for free so that benefits to families are fully maximized.

Kahiau means to give generously and lavishly without the expectation of reward. True to its name, the Kahiau Project has been distributing gifts of clothing, new toys, and food to families and individuals in need for 15 years. 100 percent of donations go to Lanai families, so if you are able, please “kahiau” this holiday season.

Please e-mail any questions you may have to Lanaikahiauproject@outlook.com or contact the Maui Police Department – Lanai District at (808) 565‑8388.