Episode #76: A Talk Story w/ Aunty Blanche at Hui Mahi'ai Aina, Serving the Houseless Community in Waimanalo
Episode Description
Today we will continue our Sustainable Leaders series and have a Talk Story with Blanch McMillen also known as AuntyBlanche. I have been meaning to meet this amazing woman and share her story for a while, and today is the day. She is the founder of Hui Mahi’ai’Āina, a homeless community program that provides village style housing, essential facilities, and long-term support for those facing hard times in Hawaii. Affordable housing for the state of Hawaii is one of our top sustainable initiatives. We are needing solutions to our problems, not bandaids and quick fixes, today we will talkabout solutions that provide hope, promise and a future!
Aunty Blanche is a lifelong supporter of Waimanalo, whose unwavering dedication to her community has made her acornerstone of hope and support for Native Hawaiians facing economic hardship. Deeply rooted in faith and compassion, she views herself as “God’s instrument,” teaching love and ‘ohana (family) to all those she helps.
Motivated by the struggles of her people—many of whom are unhoused and unable to afford living in their ancestralhome—Aunty Blanche took action. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she canvassed the Windward Coast to find and support those in need. With the help of volunteers, she established a homeless encampment on seven acres of vacant land, providing shelter, food, and medical support to over 60 people at Hui Mahi’ai 'Aina. She collaborates with nonprofits, churches, and local groups to keep her community safe, healthy, and housed.
Contact Information: Website: Home - HuiMahi'ai 'Āina www.huimahiaiaina.org
Email: anuhea00@gmail.com
Phone: (808) 482-5883
Address: 41-092 Oluolu St, Waimanalo, HI 96795
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Sunday: 9am – 12pm
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