HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle has released a $67,338 grant-in-aid to Kapahulu Center, which offers a variety of programs for seniors to enhance their quality of life, including health and wellness workshops, seminars on financial planning, community excursions, and other recreational, physical and social activities.

"We know how important staying active is to the emotional and physical well-being of our kupuna," Lingle said. "Kapahulu Center is a place where senior citizens can go to meet other people and engage in programs that promote living life to the fullest."

Located on Campbell Avenue in Honolulu, the Kapahulu Center has been serving residents for more than 25 years. Originally administered by the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, the center was subsequently operated by the Mo'ili'ili Community Center before becoming an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in July 1996. More than 400 older adults use the center and pay a nominal membership fee of $35 per year. The center is currently undergoing repairs and renovations to improve accessibility in accordance with Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

The grant-in-aid will help to cover operational costs and supplement funds raised by Kapahulu Center through donations and membership and class fees.

"The grant will support the center's activities and help us continue to offer the broad array of services enjoyed by our members," said Cassandra Tesoro, Kapahulu Center's executive director. "It's about giving back to our seniors, who have given so much to us."