Program Background

Opening in January 2019, the Pūnāwai Rest Stop has provided much-needed services to people experiencing homelessness who might not otherwise have access to bathrooms and laundries.

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We found that by pairing basic hygiene services with social services (interim case management), Pūnāwai Rest Stop will encourage those who utilize the rest stop to continue to address other barriers to housing and employment, improve their health and resolve issues that may have prevented them from stable housing.

In addition to the hygiene services, Pūnāwai Rest Stop provides charging stations for electronics and access to clean water, information and referral materials as well as basic case management services for homeless individuals and families. Case Managers provide assistance with a variety of needs, including obtaining benefits and medical insurance, legal identification documents, referrals for employment and permanent housing. Resources are available in English and other languages.

Finally, the Pūnāwai Rest Stop also serves as a venue for our partner agencies to connect with persons experiencing homelessness. With the high volume of participants as well as percentage of participants who are largely disconnected from traditional providers, the Pūnāwai Rest Stop is an ideal site to connect with and provide services to this population. Organizations who have come to PRS to assist participants include: the Street Dog Coalition (non-profit veterinarian services), Legal Aid Society of Hawaii, the Public Defender’s office/Community Outreach Court, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and State of Hawaii: Dept of Human Services – Benefits, Employment, & Support Services (BESSD), and a variety of medical programs offered by Kalihi-Palama Health Center, Hawaii Health & Harm Reduction, and Gino Behavior Health.

With the spirit of aloha, we strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.