REDUCING
HOMELESSNESS
in HAWAII
VISION
To support the reduction of homelessness inflicting the Native Hawaiian people and minimize the
loss of Hawaiian land inherited by the homeless while providing support for: Financial Assistance, Temporary Housing, Vocational Training, Job Placement, and Internships
MISSION
HISTORY and LEADERSHIP
Thao
Kamakahi
Watson
About Thao Kamakahi-Watson
Founder, Ho’okahua Native Hawaiian Foundation
Thao Kamakahi-Watson was born to George and Nho Kamakahi and raised on the island of Oʻahu, spending her early years in the tight-knit community of Waiʻanae. A graduate of Kaimuki High School, Thao went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Management from the University of Maryland and a Master of Science in Information Technology Management from Trident University International.
Thao proudly served in the U.S. Army for over 29 years, retiring in 2016 with the rank of Command Sergeant Major—one of the highest enlisted ranks in the Army. As a telecommunications and information systems chief, she held numerous leadership positions and was widely respected for her commitment to excellence, service, and mentorship.
Guided by her deep faith in God and shaped by her humble beginnings, Thao founded the Ho’okahua Native Hawaiian Foundation as a way to give back to the islands that raised her. The foundation reflects her passion for empowering Native Hawaiian communities, preserving cultural heritage, and creating opportunities for future generations.give back to the islands that raised her. The foundation reflects her passion for empowering Native Hawaiian communities, preserving cultural heritage, and creating opportunities for future generations.
Our IMPACT
Ho‘okahua Hawaiian Foundation (HHF) is proud to partner with leading organizations across Hawaiʻi in the fight against homelessness, contributing significant funding from 2024 through 2026 to support critical programs and services statewide. HHF’s partners are on the front lines, providing shelter, stability, and hope to individuals and families in need:
- Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Centers, Inc. (KHAKO) – Received $425,000; delivers emergency shelter, transitional housing, and supportive services on Maui.
- Residential Youth Services & Empowerment (RYSE) – Received $225,000; supports homeless youth on Oʻahu through shelter, healthcare, education, and workforce development programs.
- Family Promise of Hawaiʻi – Received $125,000; helps families prevent and overcome homelessness through prevention, shelter, and rapid rehousing services.
- Family Life Center (FLC) – Received $150,000; provides shelter, outreach, and housing support across Maui, Molokaʻi, and Kauaʻi.
- Project Hawaiʻi, Inc. – Received $150,000; serves homeless children through outreach, education, mentorship, and housing initiatives.
- HoʻOhana Molokai – Received $100,000; a community-based nonprofit on Molokaʻi dedicated to supporting local families facing housing insecurity, poverty, and social challenges. Their work includes:
- Family support services that help stabilize households and improve overall well-being
- Housing and homelessness assistance for individuals and families at risk
- Community programs rooted in the Hawaiian value of ʻohana, strengthening connection and resilience
Your unwavering commitment to combating homelessness across our state. Your tireless support for families during their most challenging times is truly invaluable.”
Under the leadership of Chairwoman Thao Kamakahi-Watson, a proud Kanaka Maoli, the Ho’okahua Hawaiian Foundation remains committed to supporting programs that uplift and empower our community — especially those experiencing homelessness.”
Your unwavering commitment to the well-being and empowerment of Hawai‘i’s children is truly commendable. By focusing on long-term solutions and uplifting our keiki, you are creating lasting change and brighter futures for generations to come.”
PARTNERS
Mailing
Address
2895 Pua Nani Street
Lihue, HI 96766
