A presentation ceremony was made to the Management Team of the Lunalilo Homes, with a check for $50,000 to purchase a new van. This exciting and wonderful organization had a recognized need for transportation of kupuna and staff in a safe and efficient manner, as well as supporting their other programs for kupuna. Their current transportation is a 22-year-old Ford Van.
The Lunalilo Home was founded almost 150 years ago in 1874.
In fulfillment of the trust of King William Charles Lunalilo, the sixth reigning monarch of Hawai’i, their mission is to perpetuate the legacy of King William Charles Lunalilo to honor, tend to, and protect the well-being of elders. Their vision is to be a nurturing and vibrant kauhale for all kūpuna.
Lunalilo Home is located on five expansive, landscaped acres and is situated on the western slopes of Kohelepelepe (Koko Crater) in Hawai‘i Kai.
In a quiet residential neighborhood, the entrance is graced by mature shade trees and a large porte cochere that greets visitors. The grounds have paved walking paths lined by plumeria, bougainvillea, hibiscus, crown flower, tī, white ginger, pīkake, anthuriums, ʻōhiʻa, croton, heliconia, ʻohai aliʻi and various ferns.
In recent years, Lunalilo Home has added elderly services including Adult Day Care, Respite Care, and Meals-to-Go programs. While continuing to focus on serving Hawaiians, the Home has also opened it doors and services to non-Hawaiians, and provides compassionate, quality care for kūpuna of all ethnicities. In the coming years, Lunalilo Home plans to further enhance its services and facilities to increase its impact in the community and preserve the legacy of our kūpuna and the Hawaiian people.
It is the fervent hope of the Alaka`ina Foundation that the donation of this van will allow the homes to execute their adult day care, respite care and meals-to-go programs more efficiently.
Mahalo,
Left to right: David A. Mortensen Treasurer Alaka’ina Foundation (AF), Ian L. Heilbron Director of Finance Lunalilo Homes (LH), Dr. Kealohaku`ualohaku`upoki`i Balaz Interim Executive Director LH, Teresa Makuakane-Drechsel Senior Advisor AF, William N. Villa Secretary AF.