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The Honolulu Advertiser

Posted at 1:08 a.m., Thursday, November 22, 2007

Blessing of Kaua'i's first homeless shelter held

Advertiser Staff

The doors to Kaua'i's first homeless shelter Manaolana officially opened yesterday, and a blessing was held to mark the occasion.

"Manaolana is another example of how Gov. Linda Lingle's public-private partnerships help to drive solutions and action throughout the state," Kaulana Park, Homelessness Solutions Leader for the Lingle administration said in a released statement. "State, county and non-profits can work together to find solutions in ending homelessness in Hawai'i, provide a chance for a new beginning and hope for residents, and work toward developing a new community spirit on Kaua'i."

Located next to Kaua'i Economic Opportunity Inc. (KEO) in Lihu'e, the emergency shelter has overnight accommodations for up to 19 people. The transitional housing portion has room for up to 20, with individuals and families being allowed to stay for a maximum of 24 months.

The county is leasing the site to KEO to operate the facility. Eligibility for the programs will be determined through KEO's intake process.