Convoy Of Hope Volunteers Head To Kapolei July 28

The Convoy of Hope Hawaii is returning to West Oahu July 28 in its second annual “Day of Compassion” for families living in poverty.

Volunteers will distribute food, goods and services to needy residents starting at 10 a.m. that day at the Kapolei fairgrounds (across from Walmart), as well as at McKinley High School and Kailua District Park.

It’s a simple idea that’s caught on and captured the hearts of thousands of people here and across the Mainland. And the givers just keep coming, said Bulla Eastman, a Makakilo resident and the Convoy’s media director. “It’s just about local people and local resources,” he said, adding “I can’t wait for that day; it’s a blessed day.

“They can come to any one of our three sites and get some lunch, some groceries, a haircut, a family photo, a medical screening, a dental screening, school supplies, information on assistance, and just enjoy the entertainment and meet some really nice volunteers.”

There also will be a Kids Zone, job fair and an abundance of prayers.

A hotel security director, Eastman also serves as a lay pastor for First Assembly of God at Red Hill, where he has co-led its prison ministry and reached out to inmates here and in Arizona. This month he’s reaching out to volunteers, businesses, nonprofits and churches on Oahu.

“We’ll need 3,000 volunteers this year. We’ve also got three Matson containers of groceries (67 tons of food) – one for each site – and about 50 to 70 Paul Mitchell hairstylists will be at each location to provide free haircuts, manicures, pedicures and facials.”

Last year’s inaugural Convoy drew about 14,000 people to Aloha Stadium and gave away 21 tons of food. To bless the expected 30,000 guests this time, organizers plan to give each one about $200 in groceries, goods and services.

For more information or to offer help, call 836-4479 or visit hawaiiconvoy.org.