The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) held a key release ceremony in Anahola, Kauaʻi, marking the start of new chapters for two local families. The event took place on December 19, 2024, with DHHL presenting keys to Destiny Smith and Charleene Cummings for their new homes.
Kali Watson, DHHL director, emphasized the importance of affordable housing initiatives. "We take pride in celebrating every single family that steps foot into their new home," he stated. The initiative was supported by the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA), which provides funding for such projects.
Kauaʻi Commissioner Dennis Neves expressed gratitude for the NAHASDA funding, saying it helps fulfill Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole's dream "to place our people on the ʻāina." Neves highlighted the significance of such events in showcasing the results of their efforts.
NAHASDA was established in 1996 to improve affordable housing options for American Indians and Alaska Natives. In 2000, Congress extended similar benefits to native Hawaiian families through Title VIII. These programs aim to support households with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income (AMI).
In Kauaʻi county, the AMI for a single-person household is $74,350. Both Smith and Cummings acknowledged NAHASDA as pivotal in their path to homeownership. Smith described her new home as a "dream come true," adding that being able to move in before Christmas was "the best gift we could’ve received."
Cummings shared her excitement about spending time with family in her new kitchen and preparing meals like rum cakes. She remarked, "I think I will enjoy it here for the rest of my life."
All applicants under NAHASDA must meet income eligibility criteria and participate in housing counseling sessions.
Destiny Smith noted that without this program, affording a home would have been challenging: “It would’ve been hard for us to pay $3,500 dollars a month compared to what we got.” She appreciated how this opportunity allows her more time with her children without financial stress.
Smith further commented on how special it is to have a home during Christmas: “This is like the best gift we could’ve received.”
Cummings looked forward to welcoming family members into her new space: “Maybe just watching family come over and enjoy, with the grandkids coming and going.”