Eagerly waiting for the sun to rise, feeling the excitement bubble up inside you as you and your siblings raced to the Christmas tree to see what surprises Santa left behind? Getting dressed up in your holiday best for pictures with Santa or gathering around the table for a delicious Christmas dinner with loved ones?
Or maybe the joy of an extended holiday weekend—the cozy nights spent with family by the fire or relaxing at the beach soaking in Hawai’i’s sunshine?
Christmas is a time to celebrate with those we care for most, creating treasured memories of togetherness, joy, and gratitude. For many, it’s about coming together for potlucks with aunties and uncles, exchanging heartfelt gifts, and sharing love and laughter before returning to life’s daily rhythm.
But for Hawai‘i’s homeless keiki, Christmas paints a very different picture.
The Reality for Homeless Keiki at Christmas
Those magical childhood memories so many of us take for granted can be nearly impossible for homeless children to experience. Family gatherings—a hallmark of the holidays—are a luxury for families struggling just to survive. Without the means to host or participate in festive celebrations, the season can feel isolating instead of joyous.
In communities where the “village” is essential to raising a child, its absence can be even more deeply felt during the holidays. These children miss out on the joy of decorating a tree, the excitement of opening gifts, and the warmth of shared holiday meals. Instead of fostering bonds and building self-esteem, the season can remind them of what they lack.
It Takes a Village to Raise a Child
These missed opportunities—making ornaments, baking cookies, or helping others during the holidays—impact a child’s emotional development. Christmas traditions, no matter how simple, provide children with a sense of belonging and community. When keiki light up at finding a special gift just for them or hear the laughter of others as they play together, they’re building confidence and learning the value of connection and kindness.
Childhood experts agree that these early experiences play a critical role in shaping self-esteem and identity. Without them, homeless keiki miss out on the cultural enrichment and developmental opportunities they need to grow into confident and resilient individuals.
The Hidden Struggle: Hunger
For homeless keiki, Christmas break brings another challenge: hunger.
While most children look forward to days off from school, many homeless keiki face the harsh reality of going without meals. In Hawai‘i, over 46% of students rely on free or reduced-price lunches at school. When schools close for winter break, these children may go without proper meals for days at a time.
Proper nutrition is essential for a child’s health and happiness. It gives them the energy to play with friends, strengthens their immune system, and supports physical and cognitive development. Missing meals during the holidays adds yet another layer of hardship during what should be a joyful season.
Bring Joy to a Keiki This Christmas
With your help, we can change the story for Hawai‘i’s homeless keiki this Christmas. Providing the Christmas party complete with Santa photos, gifts, games to play, cookies to decorate and crafts to create. We put all the holiday traditions in one big party for the children across the islands. You make this possible.
Make Christmas Bright for Hawai‘i’s Homeless Keiki
Together, we can create memories of joy, love, and hope for the children who need it most. Your generosity helps make the season bright and reminds these keiki that they are cherished and cared for.
Mahalo for your support and compassion this holiday season!
Wishing you a Mele Kalikimaka from Project Hawai‘i!
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