Palama Settlement

Mission

To provide facilities, services, and programs to support, improve and positively enhance the cultural, social, educational, physical and emotional well being of the individuals, families and communities surrounding Palama Settlement.

Programs

Over the years Palama has been the pioneer of many innovative programs that have met the critical needs of families living in the area. Today, the agency offers a wide range of programs and services to respond to the changing landscape of socioeconomic needs in the community. During the year, we serve approximately 900 children, youth, and senior citizens at any given point in time. In addition, throughout the calendar year, every household living in Ka’ahumanu, Mayor Wright, Kamehameha, and Pu’uhala Homes is contacted (approximately 850), needs are identified and services are provided. They are all living in environments that put them at risk for juvenile delinquency, substance abuse, family disintegration, gang violence, and other barriers to healthy, happy, and productive lifestyles. Activities addressing the needs of the entire population include: • A youth development program that includes a structured behavioral management program for children 8-15 years, that focuses on education, sports, and social development. • An intramural sports program aimed at attracting children/youth and diverting at-risk youth from the juvenile justice system. • An outreach and support program for families living in the four area housing projects (Ka’ahumanu, Mayor Wright, Kamehameha, and Pu’uhala Homes). This support includes helping to meet basic needs (clothing, furniture, housewares, school supplies for students, etc.), assistance with navigating the various state and county systems (social service, welfare, family court, etc.), and providing support when language and culture exists as barriers. • Computer classes and training for youth, adults, and senior citizens are offered throughout the year to help individuals not only become familiar with computers, but to help with other areas such as literacy and language. • Palama Settlement’s In-Community Treatment Program (ICTP) is an alternative school/counseling program operated and administered with our agency through a contract with the Family Court of Honolulu. Teens, ages 12 through 17 years, are referred by their probation officers from all parts of the island. For the majority of teens, this is their last chance to succeed in school and in their communities before being placed in the juvenile detention facility. • We also provide facilities and support to senior citizens from all parts of the island, that come to participate in a variety of activities as a way to maintain their mental and physical health, and to engage in daily personal interactions with others.