Hāmākua preschoolers, kumu and ʻohana came together to support families in need through a month-long diaper drive in partnership with the Hawaiʻi Diaper Bank. Led by Kumu Lisa Goff and fellow kumu, the preschool served as one of seven drop-off sites across Hawaiʻi Island. One in two families in the United States struggles to afford enough diapers for their babies. Without this basic necessity, children’s health and well-being are at risk and families face added stress.

The campaign included a visit from Jessica Histo, Founder and President of the Hawaiʻi Diaper Bank, who shared that the organization provides diapers for about 600 Big Island babies each month. To raise awareness during National Diaper Need Awareness Week (Sept. 15–21), keiki and kumu held a spirited sign-waving event in Paʻauilo. Smiles, shakas and cheerful honks filled the air as the community members showed their support. Keiki called out, “Show aloha to babies because they need diapers!” 

As keiki made donations, they got to write their name on a paper flower and affix it to a poster board. Over time, the flowers came together to form a lei, a beautiful symbol of unity and giving. The children beamed with pride as they saw the lei completed, knowing that their aloha and teamwork had created something meaningful for others. 

“Our haumāna have been learning and exemplifying the Hawaiian value of aloha,” said Goff. “We are teaching the keiki that it is ok to help if you can and it is ok to reach out for help as well. Our kaiāulu supports us all and keiki are an integral part of this community.” 

For our preschoolers, the experience went beyond a community service project. It was a living lesson in the values their kumu teach every day. By practicing aloha, mālama and kuleana, keiki experienced firsthand how even at the young ages of three and four years old, they can make a big difference.

In October, Histo and her son came to collect diapers and wipes donations that were overflowing out of the donation bin at Hāmākua Preschool. Keiki worked together to pass diapers down the stairs of their schoolhouse just like passing pōhaku to build a wall. Only this wall was made of diapers and wipes! Together they loaded up the van and celebrated the total of 533 diapers and 764 wipes — enough to cover 10 babies for a month.

Mahalo nui to our keiki, kumu, and ʻohana for working together to support this effort. To learn more visit www.hawaiidiaperbank.org. 
 

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