Rebuilding in Hawai’i

Oweesta Corporation Success Story

In May 2018 the Kīlauea Eruption on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi left devastation and destruction in its path: 2 dead, 24 injured, and at least $800 million in property damage. Volcanic gas and earthquakes forced the evacuation of populated areas and destroyed houses, roads, and utilities. While the eruption first happened May 3, it was active and expanding every day until it ended on September 4, 2018. It was after this four-month period of destruction and loss, that Hawaiʻi Community Lending (HCL) first met William and Barbara.

Native Hawaiian, William shared how he and his wife Barbara had lost everything including the home he built with money he pieced together over decades. Although a veteran, he was never able to purchase a home through the Veterans Administration mortgage program or any other loan program because of the cost of living and housing in Hawaiʻi are unaffordable for the very low-low-income families.

The family built their home on land they could afford. Unfortunately, the land in this affordable area comes with the knowledge of living in the path of an active volcano, the area called Kilauea, which is home of Madame Pele. In Hawaiian myths and legends Madame Pele is the goddess of volcanoes and fire and the creator of the Hawaiian Islands. She is both a creator and destroyer. Many legends speak of her work, her powers and her ways. Legends say Pele will destroy and rebuild Hawaiʻi as a way to remind us of our responsibility to our land and to each other.

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