The Hawai‘i Senate today honored Alternative Structures International, better known as Kahumana, for their service to our communities. Through the State’s Homeless Program Office, Kahumana is the largest provider of homes and jobs for homeless families. Father Phil Harmon, Founder, and Tom McDonald, CEO, are fundamental in the growth of this non-profit that services over 1,000 keiki and adults each year. Kahumana is located in Waianae and is celebrating their 40th birthday this year. Recognized for their unique approach, they are taking their model of sustainability and community wellness to other communities throughout the state.
Kahumana has placed 155 people in permanent jobs at places such as Aulani Resort, Monkey Pod Restaurant, and in numerous retail stores. Working with the State’s Developmental Disability Division, Kahumana is also a provider of services to people with developmental disabilities and autism through its Leeward and Windward Learning Centers. In addition, for ten years Kahumana has been making 1200 local healthy lunches a day, featuring produce from the Kahumana Organic Farm, and delivering them to over 35 locations. They are currently seeking to build a new kitchen in order to double the number of lunches they can produce and deliver throughout O‘ahu.