Habitat for Humanity Maui Community Relations Director Yvonne McClean and Executive Director Matthew Bachman (right) present Edward Oliveira with a Certificate of Recognition for his support.

WAILUKU — In an effort to raise awareness of the affordable housing crisis in Maui County, St. Anthony student Edward Oliveira launched a fundraiser, Paddle for Roof, to benefit Habitat for Humanity Maui.

Paddle for Roof was created as part of Oliveira’s Senior Project, which aims to foster communication and networking skills by working with others in the community to bring about positive change in the world.

“My project was focused on homelessness, so I wanted to raise awareness around the housing issues in Maui County,” Oliveira said.

“I chose to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity Maui because they help families avoid homelessness by building affordable homes.”

The fundraiser name, Paddle for Roof, comes from Oliveira’s love for canoe paddling.

Oliveira and his family hosted a community fun day at Kamaole Beach Park to end the six-week fundraiser, where the community came together to paddle, swim and celebrate Olivera’s efforts. Paddle for Roof raised over $10,000 for the nonprofit.

“The funds raised will stay in Maui County and help with our housing programs that directly impact our community,” said Yvonne McClean, Habitat for Humanity Maui’s community relations director.

“This will help us bring more opportunities to under-served residents as we continue to grow and expand our programs.”

“We are very proud of Edward and for his success with this most important project,” said David Kenney, head of St. Anthony School. “His work epitomizes the goals and purposes of the senior projects our students complete — service that has a positive, direct impact on our community.”

Habitat for Humanity Maui (HHM) is a nonprofit organization that builds and sells homes on a zero interest mortgage and nonprofit basis.

HHM serves lower-income families earning between 25 to 80 percent of Maui County’s median income.

Its mission is to build decent housing and to renovate substandard housing on Maui in partnership with community volunteers and potential homeowners, so that homelessness and substandard housing on Maui is eliminated.

To learn more about Habitat for Humanity Maui visit www.habitat-maui.org.