This school year, Nānākuli High and Intermediate School introduced a new ‘Ohana Resource Center, a space created to support students and their ‘Ohana (Family). The idea of the center began when the school was given the opportunity to apply for a grant through the Hawai’i ‘Ohana Support Network.

“Once the idea was shared with school leadership, it grew into a collaborative effort involving community volunteers, and families who all worked together to bring the vision to life,” Kaui Asinsin, Community Schools Coordinator shared.

The inspiration behind the center was to strengthen the connection between home, school, and community. Leaders saw the need for a dedicated space where families could access resources, get support, and feel welcomed. With that purpose in mind, the project moved forward and was built with the hope of bringing families and school closer together.

The center provides a range of resources and services that address the needs of the NHIS community. The center offers school supplies, clothing, and hygiene products. There are also computers and printers available for those who don’t have access to those at home. Families can also find information on local programs and get connected to workshops, tutoring, and other support opportunities. All items and services are free to NHIS families, there may be a small fee for some training classes offered.

“We hope the center creates a safe, welcoming place where families feel supported and empowered. By removing barriers and meeting basic needs, students can focus on learning and families can feel more connected to the school,” Asinsin Said.

One of the main goals of the ‘Ohana Resource Center is to tackle common challenges our community faces. Challenges such as food insecurity, limited access to school supplies, and just the lack of necessary resources. The center also looks to support mental health, encourage family involvement, and build stronger partnerships between the school and community

“For example, a family who just moved to the area could visit the center to get school supplies, and inquire about information on local programs and resources. This support helps them settle in quickly and feel part of the school community,” Asinsin said.

The center is located on campus in Portable 5 in the stadium parking lot. The center is open and available to families from 1:30 to 3:30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays and on the third Saturday of each month from 9:30 to 11:30am. If you aren’t able to visit during normal hours, appointments can be made by contacting Kaui Asinsin directly.

Asinian added, “We will expand hours once we are able to secure class offerings and food distributions.”

Students, families, and community members are also welcome to get involved. Donations of school supplies, hygiene products, clothing (not at the moment but new or gently used), or pantry items, as well as volunteers to help organize or run events. Anyone interested can contact Kaui Asinsin at [email protected].

Looking toward the future, the hope is to grow the ‘Ohana Resource Center. The goal is to expand services, grow partnerships, and ensure every family feels supported and connected. We’d like the center to become a true hub of resources, learning, and collaboration.

“We want families to know that this is their space. The ʻOhana Resource Center was built with love and care for all of our NHIS families. No matter your needs, we’re here to support you,” Asinsin emphasized.

With the new ʻOhana Resource Center, NHIS has created a space where families feel supported and students can focus on their learning. It’s a small space with a big impact, strengthening the bond between school and ʻohana.