Hui O Hoʻonua, or HOH808, is just one of the nonprofits in Hawaiʻi that has been affected by a freeze in federal funding. The group announced last month that it was laying off its staff until future funding can be found.
Anthony Chance, a social worker by day, founded the organization. They’ve spent the last eight years clearing invasive species from waterways around Puʻuloa, or Pearl Harbor, which also helps reduce the risk of flooding in the area.
“They believe in what they’re doing and upon hearing the news — yes, they were sad, but this is a part of them. This is their kuleana. They do not want to work anywhere else, but knowing that life doesn’t always work out the way you want. But this will always be a part of them,” he said…