Kauai County announced that its Homeowner Assistance Fund program has been terminated after successfully helping 369 Garden Isle homeowners avoid foreclosure since its launch in November 2021.
The HAF program was administered by local nonprofit Hawaiʻi Community Lending (HCL), which disbursed over $2.65 million in financial assistance for delinquent mortgages, HOA fees, property taxes, homeowners insurance and utilities. HCL also worked with mortgage servicers to obtain loan modifications for homeowners who could no longer make their monthly payments.
“Four years ago, the world was rocked by COVID-19, and although we didn’t know it then, our lives would never be the same again. During the pandemic, people not only had to ensure the health and safety of our loved ones, but also not knowing if they would be able to provide a roof over their families’ heads. Yet finding hope in the midst of uncertainty is what keeps our community moving forward, and that’s exactly what the Homeowner Assistance Fund has provided our people. Through this program, Hawai’i Community Lending has helped households here on Kauaʻi avoid foreclosure. We are truly grateful for their support as they have guided our residents through financially difficult situations and given them hope for their future,” said Mayor Derek SK Kawakami.
“Many of our Kaua’i homeowners were struggling financially following the pandemic and were behind on their mortgage payments. We thank Hawai’i Community Lending for working diligently to launch this program that has helped hundreds of families avoid foreclosure and been with them every step of the way,” said Adam Roversi, Kaua’i County Housing Director.
HCL Service Director Kahaunani Mahoe-Thoene expressed her gratitude for the financial support the Kaua’i community received. “During the pandemic, the financial support was a lifeline that turned uncertainty into hope and helped us bridge the gap between survival and recovery,” Mahoe-Thoene said. “It wasn’t just support, it was a glimmer of hope that showed we are not alone in this struggle.”
“I am immensely proud of the dedication and compassion of our HCL team,” she continued. “Their tireless efforts in administering financial assistance have not only provided vital support to those in need, but are also a testament to our collective commitment to making a difference during these difficult times.”
The number of homeowners assisted by the Kaua’i HAF program shows just how great the need for housing is on our islands. HCL not only offers grants and programs, but also low-cost mortgage loans, construction loans, debt consolidation and more – all with the goal of helping Kanaka keep their homes, build homes or buy homes.
With HAF financial assistance completely depleted, the County will continue to fund HUD’s housing counseling and legal services to assist homeowners still at risk of foreclosure.
Homeowners facing foreclosure are advised to contact the following for assistance:
Hawaiian Community Assets
3116 Akahi Street, Lihue, HI 96766
808-587-7886
[email protected]
Society for Legal Aid
2970 Haleko Road, Ste. 101, Lihue, HI 96766
800-499-4302
If you require an aide/assistance service or other assistance due to a disability, please call 877-477-5990 as soon as possible. Requests made as early as possible will allow sufficient time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in other formats such as large print, Braille, or an electronic copy.
For more information on the impact of the HAF program in Kauaʻi County, visit www.HawaiiCommunityLending.com/haf/
