Kalihi kauhale expansion adds 30 units for formerly homeless

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – State leaders and community partners celebrated the expansion of an affordable housing complex in Kalihi Thursday.

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Hoʻokahi Leo Kauhale, located on Middle Street, was initially developed to provide housing for homeless residents transitioning from former Sand Island and Kakaako encampments.

A blessing was held Thursday upon completion of the project’s second phase, which brings an additional 30 units and vibrant murals to the original 20-home village.

The community provides residents with health care, behavioral health services, peer support, workforce opportunities, and shared community spaces.

“Hoʻokahi Leo represents what is possible when we recognize that housing is health care,” said Gov. Josh Green. “When people have a stable place to live, surrounded by supportive services and a community that cares for them, they become healthier.”

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The state-led kauhale initiative currently consists of 26 long-term communities across Hawaii that provide affordable housing and supportive services to those who need them.

The Hawaii Health and Harm Reduction Center (H3RC) continues to serve as the site’s operating partner.

“For many residents, Hoʻokahi Leo represents far more than housing. It provides the stability that makes healing possible,” said H3RC executive director Heather Lusk.

HomeAid Hawaii has also partnered with the state on 11 completed kauhale communities, supporting the delivery of permanent, affordable housing as the initiative continues to expand.

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