HONOLULU (KHON2) — A new partnership between the state, YMCA of Honolulu and the U.S. VETS Waianae Civic Center Shelter is giving homeless children on the west side a memorable winter break.
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Keiki from kindergarten through sixth grade can participate in enriching, fun-filled activities through the fully subsidized school break day camp.
During the first day of camp on Monday, Dec. 23, 34 keiki and 47 other participants headed to Leeward YMCA to tour the facility, meet the staff and receive a backpack with camp essentials.
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Each participant received swim goggles, a water bottle, a notebook, crayons, a book and T-shirt.
“Every keiki deserves a chance to simply be a kid—to play, explore, and dream. At the YMCA, we witness firsthand how day camp transforms lives. Children arrive shy and uncertain but leave with confidence, friendships, and new skills. We are honored to welcome these families into our YMCA ‘ohana,” said Greg Waibel, YMCA of Honolulu CEO.