H O N O LU LU M A G A Z I N E
RESOURCE CENTERS There are hundreds of organizations in Hawai‘i that offer education, assistance, care or support for kūpuna and their families. These four nonprofit groups cover a wide range of services and are also invaluable for their work connecting those in need of programs with those who can serve them best. If you are not sure what you are looking for, turn to these experts for guidance.
AARP AARP, formerly the American Association of Retired Persons, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization dedicated to empowering adults 50 years and older and their ‘ohana. With nearly 150,000 members in the Islands, AARP Hawai‘i works tirelessly to meet the needs of kūpuna. From sharing practical resources to holding activities and events, AARP provides opportunities for seniors to choose how they live as they age. With their membership, seniors have access to community referrals, support and practical resources on caregiving, financial security, fighting fraud and much more. Each year, AARP Hawai‘i advocates at the state Legislature for government funds to ensure financial caregiving support and many other initiatives.
Hawai‘i Aging and Disability Resource Center The Hawai‘i Aging and Disability Resource Center is a one-stop organization that helps older adults, individuals with disabilities and family caregivers find long-term support and services. The state- and county-
funded ADRC also has county offices and directories of services to assist people of all incomes and ages for free. ADRC staff can help determine if you are eligible for public benefits and programs. They may also assist you and your family in finding providers and will work with you to develop a plan for your future long-term care.
AUW 211 Aloha United Way is a nonprofit organization that brings together resources, organizations and people within the community to advance health, education and financial stability initiatives. Established in 1919, AUW aims to help families and individuals to thrive. One of its most useful resources is its 2-1-1 help line, which works as a statewide comprehensive community referral service. Callers can speak with local experts who are trained to connect people to more than 1,300 agencies and 4,000 programs for food, shelter, financial assistance, elder care, disability service, SNAP prescreening and much more. The help line is open Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Catholic Charities Hawai‘i Catholic Charities Hawai‘i has been serving the Islands since 1947 and is part of the largest private network of social service organizations in America. It helps 40,000 people each year with a variety of needs, including emergency financial assistance grants and housing. CCH networks with other agencies to provide material assistance such as clothing, utilities and food, and helps seniors fill out applications for public benefits and find transportation for shopping, errands and other activities.
HONOLULU KŪPUNA RESOURCE GUIDE
7
