Na Hale Kupuna Project provides affordable housing for kupuna affected by Maui wildfires

In response to the housing crisis caused by the August 2023 wildfires in Maui, the J. Walter Cameron Center is launching the Nā Hale Kūpuna (NHK) Project, an affordable housing initiative for low-income senior residents affected by the disaster. Coordinated by the County of Maui's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) office, the project is funded by CDBG and CARES Act (CDBG-CV) funds.

NHK currently offers seven long-term condominium units in West, Central, and South Maui; the units are available in 1- and 2-bedroom configurations and aim to provide a stable housing solution for households of 1-5 people.

To qualify for a unit, the primary applicant must meet eligibility requirements including being at least 62 years old, having had their primary residence in Lahaina at the time of the wildfires and demonstrating that the residence was damaged beyond habitation. Additionally, households must have a combined gross annual income at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

"The Nā Hale Kūpuna Project is committed to supporting our seniors who were impacted by the wildfires by providing safe, affordable housing in their community," said Mayor Richard Bissen. "This initiative will provide relief and stability for our aging population and ensure our kūpuna are cared for during this difficult time."

Cesar Gaxiola, Executive Director at J. Walter Cameron Center, noted that numerous individuals and agencies played a role in creating this program. "We are deeply grateful for the many agencies whose collaborative efforts and unwavering support have turned vision into reality for the seniors who will benefit from this new housing option."

Applications are being accepted from Tuesday, Dec. 3 through Friday, Dec. 20, 2024. Appointments for application submission must be made in advance by calling (808) 244-5546 or scheduling online at https://jwcameroncenter.org. The application process includes income verification, background checks and documentation of primary residence as of August 8, 2023. Each adult in the household must attend the appointment to complete the necessary forms.

All applications will be evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis, and acceptance of an application does not guarantee eligibility or selection. Eligible applications will be sorted by household size, preferred location and specific accessibility needs, with selected applicants invited to view and accept a unit.

Program Highlights:

• Affordable rent: Rent is capped at 30 percent of gross household income, with minimum rents of $300 for 1-bedroom units and $400 for 2-bedroom units, not exceeding HUD's Fair Market Rent limits.

• Lease terms: Leases are for 12 months, with an option to extend.

• Pets and assistance animals: Some units allow pets, and all units accept registered assistance dogs.

• Utilities and security deposit: Tenants are responsible for utilities not included in rent, and a security deposit equivalent to one month's rent is required. Additional pet deposits may apply, excluding registered assistance animals.

For more information about eligibility and the application process, please visit https://jwcameroncenter.org or contact the Nā Hale Kūpuna Project at (808) 244-5546.

About the Nā Hale Kūpuna Project:

The Nā Hale Kūpuna Project provides affordable, long-term housing options for senior residents impacted by the Maui wildfires. As part of a community-focused initiative led by the County of Maui and funded by HUD's CDBG program, the project is dedicated to ensuring equitable and accessible housing for vulnerable populations.

About J. Walter Cameron Center:

J. Walter Cameron Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that serves to incubate, support and accelerate social good in our community. Throughout its 51-year history, the Cameron Center has acted as a central hub for numerous nonprofit social service agencies. Currently the Center is home to 24 agencies that deliver hundreds of direct services and programs each year to over 60,000 individuals throughout Maui County and become a vital connection point between our Maui 'ohana and the programs they need to grow, thrive and reach their full potential.

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