Homelessness

While the official "Point in Time" count indicates a 21% decrease in homeless populations on Hawai‘i Island over the past two years, the "visual evidence" of the chronic homeless problem confronts the community on a daily basis. In looking at successful plans from around the country we know that Housing First is an initiative that works. Hawai‘i County has been working on the Housing First initiative, and as Mayor I will work to continue this initiative and prioritize developing more supportive housing options for those with special needs such as mental health and substance abuse. I also plan to work collaboratively with our non-profit organizations and expand “one-stop shop” locations that address these homeless issues.