Health, wellness provider relocates

The Hilo office of Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi moved to a new location.

The nonprofit organization now is serving the community at 1438 Kilauea Ave.

Michelle Hiraishi, executive director, says the more centralized location will make it easier for people to access information and support their health care needs.

Hiraishi said the new location also provides more physical space to expand services. Its workshops and classes can now accommodate larger groups of people interested in learning ways to manage their diabetes, cancer and heart disease through Western and traditional Hawaiian healing methods.

“We are changing some of our services to better accommodate the needs of our island’s people,” Hiraishi said. “Ongoing changes to our funding require us to closely review and evaluate the services we provide and prompts us to make choices that will best reach the people who need help.”

In addition to grants, the organization relies on community support to help sustain its programs. A notable donation recently was made by Business Services Hawaii of a specially equipped 2016 Dodge Caravan. The van makes it possible for clients who are restricted to a wheelchair or a gurney to travel to and from their medical appointments.

The new office and van were blessed by Po‘okela Ikaika Dombrigues, cultural practitioner and healer for Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi and Hawaii Island.

Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi is a nonprofit organization providing health care services to Hawaii Island for the past 25 years. Its islandwide services include health education (classes, visits, consultations, etc.), case management, specialty transportation and traditional Hawaiian healing.

For more information, contact Hui Malama Ola Na ‘Oiwi at 969-9220.