Editor’s note: Each Wednesday, West Hawaii Today is publishing a story about individuals, groups or organizations that have helped make life better for others in our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Keeping in touch with loved ones amid the pandemic will now be a little easier for long-term care residents at Hale Ho’ola Hamakua.
Aloha Independent Living Hawaii, a nonprofit organization based in Oahu with offices on the Big Island, on Aug. 25 donated eight iPads for residents at the Honokaa facility. The donation came via the nonprofit’s TeleConnect Program that aims to “sooth the pressures of social isolation.”
“Due to the pandemic, the facility’s residents have been unable to visit in person with friends and family,” said Brian Hauser, Advocacy Coordinator and TeleConnect Project Lead for Aloha Independent Living Hawaii. “The TeleConnect Program addresses social isolation by providing devices to those previously unable to connect online.”
After the iPads were donated to the facility, training was also provided for staff so they can assist residents with making video calls.
For more information, contact Hauser at brianh@alohailhawaii.org or at (808) 866-3626 or visit www.alohailhawaii.org.
Know a Hometown Hero who should be highlighted next Wednesday? It can be anybody, from a youngster doing good for the community, to a professional helping with the COVID-19 pandemic, or even a kupuna! Please send your nominations to cjensen@westhawaiitoday.com with the subject: Hometown Heroes Nomination.