WAIALUA ELEMENTARY

WAIALUA, HI - AUGUST 2021

To empower & challenge students to gain the skills, knowledge & habits that will enable them to become responsible & effective leaders

August 13th, 2021
 

Waialua Elementary School sits within the North Shore community of O’ahu Island. Waialua was formerly known for its sugar mill plantations but has since transformed into the coffee and tropical fruit farms, food trucks, and windmills seen while driving through the luscious mountains and quaint residential homes. Additionally, the North Shore location provides long beaches spanning the north coast of O’ahu, as well as massive waves that invites surfers and families from across the globe.  

Unfortunately, heavy rainfall tends to be a dangerous factor up in the North Shore which saturates the road and soil, turns streams to rivers, and creates water runoff of trash, chemicals, and debris. These harmful factors can lead to flooding and even landslides, which occurred on the North Shore from March 8th to 18th 2021. In the end, floodwaters forced evacuations and caused severe damage to homes, buildings, and road structures - like traffic lights, signs, and bridges. The emotional, physical, and economical impact especially took a toll on families, business owners, visitors, and terrain in Hale’iwa – the neighboring town of Waialua.  

Governor Ige and the Hawai`i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) called upon the Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program to aid in financial support to families and businesses affected by the storm. Even with the ongoing repairs of structural damages and businesses opening up again, there is still a need for island support – which is why we chose to highlight Waialua Elementary as our FIRST school for donation! 

With the community’s help from our last fundraiser event, we were able to provide Waialua Elementary with back-to-school supplies to start off their new school year in-person!! Our hope is that this donation will contribute to the students’ education and continue to strengthen the support that this community is so committed to providing.  

Mahalo, Waialua Elementary, for partnering with our organization!!