HOPE Services Hawaiʻi, in partnership with Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church and community leaders, hosted a blessing ceremony on Wednesday to celebrate the grand opening of Hale Ulu Lehua, a new supportive housing project for kūpuna.

The ceremony marked the forthcoming opening of a transformative project that converted the former convent house on the church grounds into 10 single-occupancy, permanent, affordable rental units. The facility is designed to address the critical need for housing for Hāmākua kūpuna.

Hale Ulu Lehua features renovated units, upgraded shared bathrooms, a fully expanded communal kitchen, and on-site laundry facilities. Accessibility was a key focus, with the addition of an entry ramp, expanded kitchen with a new dining room, and widened doorways. Residents will have access to case management and tenancy support services provided by HOPE Services Hawaiʻi.

Photo credit: Hope Services Hawaiʻi