The Maui News

The two-story, 7,100-square-foot Hale Pono Youth Shelter is nearly complete and almost ready to offer Maui teens much-needed tools and resources to cope with emotional or behavioral problems, truancy, domestic violence, trauma or other challenges.

A private grand opening event will be held from noon to 3 p.m. on July 15 at the facility’s location at 1727 Wili Pa Loop to celebrate the completion of the building renovations.

According to a news release, Hale Pono is expected to open shortly after the grand opening once staff can be hired and trained to provide services to the community. The shelter will offer 13 beds to Maui teens who need a place to stay and referrals to other programs, services and resources available on island.

Funding the project are Sulara James and Genesis Young, founders of the nonprofit Teran James Young Foundation.

“We believe society should be judged by how we treat our most vulnerable, and it’s our kuleana to step up for our youth,” Young said in the news release.

The shelter is centrally located for ease of access for youth in need and their families, as well as for easy access to schools, medical facilities and justice services.

Hale Pono will not only supply basic necessities for youth and their families, but offer teachings and programs that will cultivate vital communication skills and tend to both their emotional and mental health, the news release said.

The shelter has undergone four years of building and planning since the first task meeting was held on Feb. 20, 2019. The project is expecting final permitting soon.

Hale Pono is currently looking for volunteers and donations, both monetary and material.

For those interested in getting involved or learning more about the project and upcoming community programs, visit halepono.org/.