Hale Pono co-founders Dr. Genesis Young and Sulara James created this privately funded youth shelter.

WAILUKU — Hale Pono Shelter held its official opening on Sept. 6, ushering in a beacon of hope and support for Maui’s youth.

Seeing the need for a sanctuary space for youth on Maui, Hale Pono co-founders Dr. Genesis Young and Sulara James stepped up to create this privately funded youth shelter.

Three years in the making, the shelter is officially open and welcoming Maui youth. The Hale Pono Youth Shelter has 13 beds plus one ADA accessible bed (reserved for those who meet the ADA requirements).

As a dedicated short-term youth shelter, Hale Pono provides essential resources and housing for Maui’s youth ages 12-17 while actively pursuing long-term solutions for both young individuals and their families.

The shelter places its central focus on creating a secure and nurturing environment where young people can access resources to address their unique needs.

“Our ultimate goal is family reunification or effective long-term placement solution like foster care, long-term shelter or placement with extended family,” explained Dr. Young.

Along with this primary goal of reunification and long-term placement for teens, Hale Pono Youth Shelter serves as a hub for connecting teens and families with vital programs and services.

“We take a personalized approach, ensuring that each case is evaluated individually to provide the most suitable care and support. We are dedicated to serving as a lifeline for Maui’s youth, offering a place of refuge and a strong commitment to their well-being,” shared David Litman, director of programs and training at Hale Pono.

Hale Pono Youth Shelter and its programs are based on and steeped in the principles of Nonviolent Communication, Restorative Justice, and Trauma Informed Care.

“Hale Pono is based on our belief that each person of any age is precious, and that love, honor and respect are the keys to supporting and encouraging everyone’s gifts, happiness, self-respect and success in life,” remarked Hale Pono co-founder James.

In addition to youth shelter services, Hale Pono extends its outreach through various drop-in programs for youth, families and the wider community.

For more information about Hale Pono Youth Shelter, call (808) 866-0833 or visit www.halepono.org.