Even when things look their worst, it's possible to find hope.

That's the mission of the "Million Stars of Hope" campaign launched yesterday by the nonprofit Children's Alliance of Hawaii. The agency is looking to raise awareness and support for its programs to help children who have been sexually abused.

That assistance can be found in the simplest of things: school supplies, clothing, toiletries. It is also found in the hearts of counselors and others at this agency who help children find resiliency, comfort — and above all, hope.

The alliance provides help for children in conjunction with the state-run Children's Justice Center of O'ahu, which sadly saw about 600 children come through as victims of reported sexual abuse this year.

In addition to raising awareness, the alliance is also hoping to raise money for its programs. Sure, these are tough times. But just a $1 donation is enough to earn recognition as a "Star of Hope." The alliance hopes many small donations — hence a "Million Stars of Hope" — will collectively make a big difference.

After all, a little hope goes a long way.