Community Help Vital To Windward Spouse Abuse Shelter

Suzie Henyan (left), donations coordinator for 7-Eleven Hawaii, presents Windward Spouse Abuse Shelter director Avis Kalama with a check for $6,980.85 from its annual canister drive. Photo from Donna Ho’omanawanui.

As people push and shove their way to retail bargains – or even as they gather calmly for family feasts in keeping with the holidays – still others are alone, fearful and crushed by human cruelty. Such is the daily experience of women and children who flee to Hale Ola, the Windward Spouse Abuse Shelter.

Founded in 1992 by and for Windward residents, Hale Ola (“house of life”) is open 24 hours a day to take in victims of trauma from domestic violence and homelessness. Recent donations have helped keep its doors open, but more is always needed, as the home operates at capacity (26) most of the time.

Last month 7-Eleven Hawaii gave a check to shelter director Avis Kalama for $6,980.85, representing earnings from its annual canister drive (see photo).

In October, Roland and Kitty Lagareta hosted a fundraising reception at their Lanikai home, where guests honored Hale Ola founders and contributed more than $7,000 to shelter operations.

A special plaque was presented that night in memory of Waimanalo’s Cathie Carvalho, whose violent death in 1987 inspired the Hawaii Women’s Caucus to strengthen bills related to crimes against women, and to urge the community to open a shelter. The plaque is to be installed at the shelter.

For those who may need emergency help quickly, call the shelter hotline at 528-0606.

For others who want to help by donating items, check the suggestions below. For more information, call 528-1033.

Holiday wish list for the women and children: new underwear (sizes 5-10), journals, health and beauty products, women and children’s slippers, arts and crafts items, school supplies, birthday gift certificates, bus tickets, movie tickets and $5 phone cards.

Ongoing needs: Clorox and Clorox wipes, Lysol disinfectant spray, Dawn liquid soap, Pine-Sol, dish sponges, toothbrushes and toothpaste, hair brushes, shampoo and conditioner, washcloths and towels, laundry detergent, dryer sheets and facial tissue.