Category: Programs & Services

  • Help Prevent Medicare Fraud & Abuse

    Medicare fraud poses a significant threat to the integrity of healthcare systems, leading to increasing healthcare costs and undermining trust. Medicare loses an estimated $60 billion annually due to fraud, errors and abuse, but the actual figure is difficult to measure. Medicare fraud and abuse can block people’s access to potentially lifesaving services and benefits. Educating yourself and your loved ones on how to prevent Medicare fraud, errors and abuse is the best place to start.

    Understanding Medicare Fraud

    Medicare fraud involves the intentional deception or misrepresentation that results in unauthorized benefits. Common examples are as such:

    Phantom billing: Charging for services or equipment not provided.

    Patient billing: Using a beneficiary’s Medicare number for false claims.

    Upcoding: Billing for more expensive services than those actually performed.

    Kickbacks: Receiving incentives for patient referrals or prescribing specific products.

    Preventing Medicare Fraud

    Beneficiaries should be vigilant:

    Protect personal information: Never share Medicare numbers with unverified groups.

    Review statements: Regularly examine Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) and Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) for inconsistencies.

    Avoid unsolicited offers: Offers for free medical services or equipment may be scams.

    Detecting and Reporting Fraud

    To identify potential fraud:

    Verify services: Ensure all billed services were received and necessary.

    Check provider legitimacy: Confirm that providers are reputable/services were authorized.

    If fraud is suspected:

    Contact providers: Discuss billing concerns with healthcare providers.

    Report to authorities: Reach out to the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) or the Office of Inspector General.

    Senior Medicare Patrol

    SMP Hawaii is a federally funded volunteer program that empowers and assists Medicare beneficiaries to prevent, detect and report healthcare fraud. By staying informed and vigilant, we all can play a crucial role in identifying and mitigating dishonest activities.

    SENIOR MEDICARE PATROL (SMP) HAWAII
    1-800-296-9422 | info@smphawaii.org
    smphawaii.org | Facebook: smphawaii808

    Medicare fraud poses a significant threat to the integrity of healthcare systems, leading to increasing healthcare costs and undermining trust. Medicare loses an estimated $60 billion annually due to fraud, errors and abuse, but the actual figure is difficult to measure. Medicare fraud and abuse can block people’s access to potentially lifesaving services and benefits.…

  • A Native Hawaiian Health Road Map

    Hawaiian elders are treasured and revered for their profound and invaluable role in strengthening families and sustaining the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture and language. But despite their significance, they have the poorest health outcomes compared to their counterparts from other ethnic groups in Hawai‘i. They are at the highest risk of developing dementia as they age.

    In 2023, Papa Ola Lōkahi (POL), the Hawaiian Board of Health, followed the Healthy Brain Institute (HBI) Road Map for Indian Country to develop the Road Map for Native Hawaiians to inform the state plan of public health strategies to specifically address their unique needs.

    Using cultural sensitivity and understanding, POL conducted focus groups with kūpuna and stakeholders to gain information about service barriers and gaps, caregiver and patient support, and culturally relevant recommendations.

    The HBI Road Map for Indian Country highlighted important themes that guided POL’s inquiries when it engaged with advisory board members, Hawaiian elders and focus group participants. The process was grounded in cultural values, with utmost respect for Hawaiian elders, sensitivity toward their family/caregivers and mindfulness that trust is essential to developing and sustaining collaborative relationships.

    POL utilized insights and recommendations from this process to assist the Hawai‘i Department of Health Executive Office on Aging (EOA) in updating its State Plan on Aging. This initiative aims to enhance the development and implementation of the Road Map for Native Hawaiians. Dr. Adrienne Dillard, PhD., CEO of Kula No Nā Po‘e Hawai‘i (KULA) of Papakōlea, is one of five members on the advisory board involved in the road map project and is currently leading its implementation through a grant from the EOA.

    This “living document” can change and grow over time, and is designed to bring together kūpuna, families, caregivers and service agencies to help support those affected by dementia in Native Hawaiian communities. It also includes suggestions for overcoming obstacles that prevent access to essential resources.

    Upcoming KULA road map conversations will be held on O‘ahu and Lāna‘i, and in Kona and Hāna. KULA will continue caregiver training on O‘ahu. For information a about a meeting or caregiver training, contact KULA at kula.papakolea@gmail.com or 808-649-3725. Access the Native Hawaiian Road Map at papaolalokahi.org/program/kupuna-brain-health.

    PAPA OLA LO¯ KAHI (nonprofit)
    677 Ala Moana Blvd., Ste. 720, Honolulu, HI 96813
    808-597-6550 | manao@papaolalokahi.org
    papaolalokahi.org

    Hawaiian elders are treasured and revered for their profound and invaluable role in strengthening families and sustaining the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture and language. But despite their significance, they have the poorest health outcomes compared to their counterparts from other ethnic groups in Hawai‘i. They are at the highest risk of developing dementia as…

  • Legacy2Action Bridges Students & Kūpuna

    The 100th Infantry Battalion was a unit of second-generation Americans of Japanese ancestry men, nisei, who were born in Hawai‘i and achieved worldwide recognition as fierce fighters and loyal Americans. They achieved these accomplishments despite initial, unfounded suspicion and discrimination because they looked like the Japanese enemy who attacked Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Together with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the 100th earned recognition as the most decorated in US military history for its size and length of service. There are only seven known living veterans remaining from the 100th.

    Club 100 (primarily descendants) and its partners — ‘Iolani School, the University of Hawai‘i Center on Aging and Central Pacific Bank — are passionate about sharing the values of the 100th with youth, so they can apply these leadership characteristics to community service projects. They call this initiative “Legacy2Action.”

    The concept was piloted in 2022 with four students. In 2024, over 100 students participated and shared creative solutions. Their foci included inspiring students to learn about their grandparents’ history and culture, providing hygiene supplies for the Women’s Correctional Center, providing more ethnic/diverse books for schools, promoting peace, containing fire ants and more. The students shared leadership values, such as gaman (quiet endurance), ganbari (perseverance) and giri (obligation), that made the nisei so successful, despite being small in stature — on average 5-feet 4-inches tall, weighing 125 pounds.

    Organizers also welcomed kūpuna to help by sharing their knowledge. A few months ago, internationally acclaimed gerontologist Dr. Emi Kiyota visited the 100th Infantry Battalion Clubhouse and shared her thoughts on healthy aging, living with independence and purpose. Her studies show seniors enjoy giving to others and making a difference in their community. The organizers encourage kūpuna to share their skills and interests to help students develop their community service projects. Please share your interests by using the contact information below.

    100th INFANTRY BATTALION VETERANS
    520 Kamoku St. Honolulu, HI 96826
    For more information:
    info@100thbattalion.org | 808-946-0272
    Written in collaboration with the UH Center on Aging and ’Iolani School

    The 100th Infantry Battalion was a unit of second-generation Americans of Japanese ancestry men, nisei, who were born in Hawai‘i and achieved worldwide recognition as fierce fighters and loyal Americans. They achieved these accomplishments despite initial, unfounded suspicion and discrimination because they looked like the Japanese enemy who attacked Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.…

  • Save More on Prescriptions

    On Aug. 16, 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act became law, bringing relief for many Medicare beneficiaries who pay a lot for their prescription drugs. New benefits begin each year to lower your copays and out-of-pocket costs.

    2023: The law caps copay at $35/month for certain insulin medications. Medicare covers 100% of Part D vaccinations, such as for shingles.

    2024: Medicare Part D covers 100% of drug costs once you meet $8,000 out-of-pocket limit per calendar year. More people qualified for Extra Help to offset drug plan copays and deductibles.

    2025: Payment plan spreads out prescription drug copays through the calendar year. Maximum out-of-pocket limit drops from $8,000 to $2,000 per calendar year.

    2026: It significantly reduces costs of 10 lifesaving drugs. For a comprehensive list of drugs and their newly negotiated prices, visit hawaiiship.org.

    The Inflation Reduction Act is a major step toward improving Medicare coverage. Beneficiaries can expect more enhancements soon to lessen financial strain and increase access to needed medications to support health and well-being.

    If you have questions regarding Medicare or how these benefits may affect you, contact Hawai‘i SHIP using the information below.

    HAWAI‘I SHIP
    250 South Hotel St., Ste. 406, Honolulu, HI 96813
    O‘ahu: 808-586-7299 | Toll free: 888-875-9229
    hawaiiship.org
    Free, local, one-on-one Medicare counseling is provided by the Hawai‘i State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

    On Aug. 16, 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act became law, bringing relief for many Medicare beneficiaries who pay a lot for their prescription drugs. New benefits begin each year to lower your copays and out-of-pocket costs. 2023: The law caps copay at $35/month for certain insulin medications. Medicare covers 100% of Part D vaccinations, such…

  • SMART911 Helps First Responders Help You

    In emergencies, quick, informed responses can make the difference between life and death. Whether it’s responding to a 911 call of an individual experiencing a medical crisis at home or or an impending natural disaster, access to critical information can empower first responders to act appropriately and effectively in saving lives.

    The SMART911 service helps protect your family by providing this vital information to first responders. The public safety service enables individuals to create secure profiles with crucial information that first responders can access during emergencies. The core purpose is to enhance safety and response time by providing responders with important context about a person’s medical conditions, disabilities, care needs, personal preferences and other factors that could impact how they approach and assist in a crisis. This system is particularly valuable for people with disabilities or dementia, and older adults who may have specific access and functional needs.

    Smart911 profiles can highlight health conditions, communication preferences, mobility constraints, cognitive impairment, medications, behavioral triggers, sensory sensitivities and more, giving first responders the context needed to respond safely and compassionately.

    Instructions and emergency contacts can also be added. And incorporating an Advance Healthcare Directive and Power of Attorney document alongside SMART911 ensures that your wishes are clear. SMART911 allows these individuals or their caregivers to proactively share this information in a secure system, bridging communication gaps that can arise during stressful situations. This will enhance emergency response effectiveness, reduce distress, avoid escalation and promote dignified, informed care.

    Set up a SMART911 profile at smart911.com. Join SMART911 and empower first responders with the information that could save lives when seconds matter. Together, we can contribute to a safer, more inclusive community, where first responders have the tools to help anyone in crisis — particularly our most vulnerable members.

    HAWAI‘I STATE COUNCIL ON DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
    1010 Richards St., Room 122, Honolulu, HI 96813
    808-586-8100 | hiddcouncil.org

    In emergencies, quick, informed responses can make the difference between life and death. Whether it’s responding to a 911 call of an individual experiencing a medical crisis at home or or an impending natural disaster, access to critical information can empower first responders to act appropriately and effectively in saving lives. The SMART911 service helps…

  • Medicare Drug Costs Capped for Kūpuna

    Maui resident Susan Baylosis and her mother both use Medicare Part D insurance to pay for their medicines.

    So far, their co-payments have been manageable. They haven’t had to take expensive brand-name prescription drugs.

    But Susan, an advocate for caregivers, knows that a catastrophic illness like cancer could be financially devastating even with insurance.

    “The everyday person doesn’t want to think about it,” she says. “If I had to pay for expensive medications, I would have to find ways to cut down on other expenses, like food or gas. The average person doesn’t make that kind of money.”

    Starting next year, a new law will cap Medicare prescription drug plan out-of-pocket expenses at $2,000. Hawai‘i’s 167,422 Part D Medicare beneficiaries will have the peace of mind of knowing that they won’t be forced to choose between paying for food and medicine or not taking medicines because of the high cost of prescription drugs.

    A recent AARP study estimates that 3.2 million older Americans, including more than one in 10 Hawai‘i kūpuna with Medicare drug plans, will see lower drug costs next year because of the cap. The average savings next year will be roughly $1,500 for kūpuna who hit the drug cap.

    By 2029, about 4.1 million people, roughly 9.6% of Medicare beneficiaries, will see savings. In Hawai’i the savings will help an estimated 24,437 kūpuna, or 13% of those with Part D drug plans who do not qualify for subsidies.

    Prior to the passing of this law, Part D plans did not have a limit on out-of-pocket spending.

    “AARP was instrumental in Congress passing the prescription drug law of 2022 to lower prices and out-of-pocket costs for Medicare enrollees,” AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins says. “As we approach January 2025, we want every senior in America to know that, thanks to the new annual cap which limits their out-of-pocket costs, they will have more money to invest in their families, spend on their broader health needs or simply save to achieve greater financial stability.”

    Since Medicare Open Enrollment is in effect until Dec. 7, Medicare beneficiaries should review their Part D drug plans for changes resulting from the new law and shop around.

    The Hawai‘i State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a free service that can help answer questions about Medicare enrollment. Go to hawaiiship.org, or call the Hawai‘i SHIP Helpline at 808-586-7299 or toll-free at 1-888-875-9229.

    AARP HAWAII (nonprofit)
    1001 Bishop St., #625, Honolulu, HI 96813
    808-545-6000 | hiaarp@aarp.org | aarp.org/hi
    AARP is a non-partisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age.

    Maui resident Susan Baylosis and her mother both use Medicare Part D insurance to pay for their medicines. So far, their co-payments have been manageable. They haven’t had to take expensive brand-name prescription drugs. But Susan, an advocate for caregivers, knows that a catastrophic illness like cancer could be financially devastating even with insurance. “The…

  • Helping Kūpuna Age Safely at Home

    Aging is a natural part of life, but it often comes with challenges, especially for our kūpuna who wish to remain in their own homes. Maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment can become increasingly difficult with age, but programs like “A Brush with Kindness” are stepping in to provide invaluable support.

    This Habitat for Humanity Maui initiative focuses on home preservation and aims to assist low-income homeowners with essential home repairs, maintenance and improvements at no cost.

    The program offers more than just home repair. It’s a lifeline for many kūpuna who might otherwise struggle to remain in their homes. By addressing critical home maintenance needs, the program helps prevent accidents, reduce the risk of illness and enhance overall well-being. Additionally, having a safe and well-maintained home means more than just physical security. It’s about dignity, independence and peace of mind, ensuring they can age in a safe and supportive environment.

    As we look toward the future, it’s essential to continue supporting such initiatives. We need to remember the profound impact that a helping hand can have on all of our lives — but especially the lives of our beloved kūpuna. For them, your impact is priceless.

    HABITAT FOR HUMANITY MAUI (nonprofit)
    1162 Lower Main St., Wailuku, HI 96793
    808-242-1140 | info@habitat-maui.org
    habitat-maui.org

    Aging is a natural part of life, but it often comes with challenges, especially for our kūpuna who wish to remain in their own homes. Maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment can become increasingly difficult with age, but programs like “A Brush with Kindness” are stepping in to provide invaluable support. This Habitat for…

  • Kūpuna Services Re-Emerge in Kāne‘ohe

    The COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in countless ways. Businesses closed, including services for kūpuna and their family caregivers. Unfortunately, many of these businesses did not reopen as the rest of the state began recovery from the pandemic and began to rebuild.

    Adult day care services are important to kūpuna who need supervision and socialization during the day while their caregivers work or carry out other personal chores.

    Due to the pandemic, Kāne‘ohe had been without these services for over three years.

    As the need in this area became apparent, Hale Hau‘oli Hawai‘i, a nonprofit organization with two established adult day care centers in ‘Aiea, began looking for an appropriate location in the Kāne‘ohe area for an additional adult day care center.

    After many months of delays, Hale Hau‘oli Hawai‘i was finally able to open a new center in the Windward City Shopping Center, 45-480 Kāne‘ohe Bay Drive, on Aug. 1, 2024.

    The interest in this adult day care center location has been overwhelming, showing the dire need for this type of service in this underserved community. Hale Hau‘oli Hawai‘i is honored and excited to bring this assistance to the windward side of O‘ahu.

    HALE HAU‘OLI HAWAI‘I (nonprofit)
    98-1247 Kaahumanu St., Ste. 207, Aiea, HI 96701
    808-292-4665 | kwyatt01@aol.com
    halehauolihawaii.org

    The COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in countless ways. Businesses closed, including services for kūpuna and their family caregivers. Unfortunately, many of these businesses did not reopen as the rest of the state began recovery from the pandemic and began to rebuild. Adult day care services are important to kūpuna who need supervision and socialization during…

  • The Legacy of The Salvation Army

    Since 1894, The Salvation Army, Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division, has focused its efforts on providing support, a sense of community and, most importantly, hope to those in need. For the past 130 years, their hallmark programs, such as the Red Kettle campaign and Angel Tree Giving, have played a pivotal role in ensuring that the holiday spirit reaches everyone, especially those facing financial or personal hardships.

    The Red Kettle campaign, a familiar sight during the holiday season, involves volunteers — from keiki to kūpuna — stationed outside stores, ringing bells and collecting donations. This tradition, dating back over a century, raises critical funds that support The Salvation Army’s numerous programs — emergency assistance, at-risk youth, food insecurity, substance use disorders, houselessness and more.

    Senior volunteers bring their time and energy, and a deep commitment to serving the community. Many have been involved for years, finding purpose and connection through their work. The Salvation Army welcomes individuals of all ages to join this effort, offering an opportunity to give back during the holidays while impacting families year-round.

    “I love The Salvation Army at Christmastime because it gives me a joy to help people,” said Matthew Kailihou, a Red Kettle veteran who has been ringing for nearly five decades. “I would encourage all of you volunteers to come out so we can help people who need it at this time.”

    The Angel Tree Giving program is another cornerstone of The Salvation Army’s holiday initiatives. This program brings joy to children and families who may not receive gifts during the holiday season for various reasons. Community members select tags from Angel Trees, each representing a specific child or family, and purchase items to fulfill their wish lists. The impact of this program goes beyond material gifts; it shows families that they are not alone — even during the most challenging times. Volunteers play a crucial role in organizing and distributing these gifts, making sure that every child’s wish is granted.

    Beyond these holiday-specific programs, The Salvation Army is deeply committed to supporting the community throughout the entire year.

    If disaster strikes in the community or at home, The Salvation Army is one of the first organizations to respond and often one of the last to leave. Through specialized training, the organization is able to make a difference when it matters most.

    “The truth is, it takes an army to do the work that we do every single day,” says The Salvation Army Divisional Director of Development Charmaine Hauanio-Kuewa. “Because of our donors, staff and volunteers, we have the opportunity to ensure that anybody who may be without food, a house or parents will never be without hope.”

    The Kroc Center Hawaii in Ewa Beach is one example of a Salvation Army owned-and-operated facility where people of all ages have opportunities to learn, grow, acquire new skills and build confidence. As the state’s largest community center of its kind, the Kroc Center offers a wide range of programs designed to foster connection and support development.

    The Mixed Plate program, for example, brings people together over shared meals and activities. This initiative creates a friendly environment where everyone is welcome and encouraged to connect, share stories and build lasting relationships.

    The Salvation Army’s work in Hawai‘i and across the greater Pacific is a testament to the power of collective effort and the spirit of giving and aloha. Its programs bring people together and provide much-needed assistance to some of the most vulnerable populations within our community.

    Volunteer opportunities: You can be an important part of this impactful work by volunteering, donating or simply spreading the word.

    Every contribution — no matter how big or small — helps to continue The Salvation Army’s continuing legacy of aloha in action.

    For more information on how to support The Salvation Army, Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division, please see the donation and volunteer contact information below.

    THE SALVATION ARMY (nonprofit)
    Hawaiian & Pacific Islands Division
    hawaii.salvationarmy.org
    808-988-2136

    Since 1894, The Salvation Army, Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division, has focused its efforts on providing support, a sense of community and, most importantly, hope to those in need. For the past 130 years, their hallmark programs, such as the Red Kettle campaign and Angel Tree Giving, have played a pivotal role in ensuring that…

  • It’s the Season for Health Insurance Options

    It’s the Season for Health Insurance Options

    October through December brings an annual opportunity for seniors to review their health status and medical insurance plan to ensure coverage that suits them best.

    All seniors 65 and over can have health insurance. If needed, no-cost government sponsored plans are a ready and available option. Hawai‘i seniors who have had changes in income, assets or disability status are encouraged to check eligibility and apply for coverage. Eligibility depends on many factors, including age, household size, assets and income.

    For seniors with Medicare, Oct. 15 through Dec. 7 is known as the “Annual Enrollment Period.” During this time, people with Medicare can change their Medicare health plan and prescription drug coverage for the following year. To learn more about getting Medicare coverage and plan information, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

    Regardless of coverage, don’t let the year go by without seeing your doctor. If you don’t have one, contact your health insurance plan to assist you or make an appointment with a clinic nearby. An annual checkup can be lifesaving. Community health centers will see patients for medical and/ or dental services regardless of the ability to pay. Learn more at hawaiipca.net.

    ALOHACARE
    1357 Kapiolani Blvd., Ste. G101, Honolulu, HI 96814
    808-973-0712 | toll free 1-877-973-0712
    kreid@alohacare.org
    alohacare.org

    October through December brings an annual opportunity for seniors to review their health status and medical insurance plan to ensure coverage that suits them best. All seniors 65 and over can have health insurance. If needed, no-cost government sponsored plans are a ready and available option. Hawai‘i seniors who have had changes in income, assets…

  • Senior Pedestrian Safety Tips

    Senior Pedestrian Safety Tips

    Seniors 65 years and older represent about a third of all pedestrian fatalities across the state. The Hawai‘i State Department of Transportation’s Walk Wise Hawaii program launched a partnership with First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) to stress the importance of visibility while walking — day or night.

    Most pedestrian crashes occur between 6 pm and 6 am, when visibility is low. FICOH provided over 3,500 green reflective pedestrian snap-on wristbands and safety lights at senior outreach events across the state.

    SOME SAFETY TIPS

    • Dress to be seen. During the day, wear brightly colored clothing. At night, wear reflective material on your shoes, hat or clothing.
    • Cross only at corners or marked crosswalks.
    • Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, make sure you walk facing traffic.
    • Look left, right, left again and over your shoulder before you step into the street.
    • Keep looking and listening as you cross, until you reach the other side.
    • When crossing in front of stopped cars, make eye contact to be sure drivers see you before crossing in front of them.

    If your organization would like to receive pedestrian safety wristbands, email Lance@tlcpr.com to book a pedestrian safety presentation. For more information, visit hidot.hawaii.gov/walk-wise-hawaii.

    Seniors 65 years and older represent about a third of all pedestrian fatalities across the state. The Hawai‘i State Department of Transportation’s Walk Wise Hawaii program launched a partnership with First Insurance Company of Hawaii (FICOH) to stress the importance of visibility while walking — day or night. Most pedestrian crashes occur between 6 pm…

  • Bounty of Activities at Kaua‘i Senior Centers

    Bounty of Activities at Kaua‘i Senior Centers

    At its nine senior centers, the County of Kaua‘i Department of Parks & Recreation (DP&R) provides quality educational and recreational opportunities for growth and enhancement through an array of diverse programs and special events that promote community participation and environmental awareness while meeting the physical, mental, social and psychological needs of our island’s kūpuna.

    ■ Senior Classes & Activities: Kekaha, Waimea, Kaumakani, Hanapēpē, Kalāheo, Kōloa, Līhu‘e, Kapa‘a/Anahola (combined sites) and Kīlauea Neighborhood Centers serve as hubs for senior classes and activities, including hula, ‘ukulele, wellness, crafts, ballroom and line dancing, mahjong, Nordic Walk, yoga, meditation, chi gung, drumming, tai-chi, weightlifting and bingo.
    ■ Senior Pickleball: Pickleball continues to grow among the senior population, attracting well over 300 participants on Kaua‘i. Mini tournaments, leagues, classes and open play are offered at outdoor public venues and gyms across the island.■ Senior Mini Fun Day: In September, Kaua‘i DP&R holds competitive outdoor games, including Portuguese horseshoes, water balloon toss and bingo with prizes, entertainment and morning snacks. Seniors look forward to meeting up and mingling with friends from other senior centers.
    ■ Senior Craft Fair: The Līhu‘e Senior Center hosts a popular craft fair in October, offering a jumpstart on holiday shopping. Homemade wares, such as rugs, quilts, blankets and lei are sold. Bonsai plants are also on display, with knowledgeable seniors on-hand to share their expertise about cultivation and care. Strong community support has baked goods, pickled onions and other favorites selling out, so get there early.
    ■ Valentine Aloha Party: A well-deserved, popular “Mahalo Party” with a live band welcomes the members of all Kaua‘i Senior Centers in February. Kaua‘i firefighters serve as dance partners. Seniors enjoy a delicious buffet luncheon, with door prizes given away throughout the day, courtesy of Na Kupuna Council.

    COUNTY OF KAUA‘I DEPT. OF PARKS & RECREATION
    4444 Rice St., Ste. 105, Lihue, HI 96766
    808-241-4460 | dagaran@kauai.gov
    kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Parks
    Kaua‘i’s Senior Programs throughout the island:
    Melanie Okamoto
    808 241-4462 | mokamoto@kauai.gov
    Bronson Carvalho
    808 241-4465 | bbcarvalho@kauai.gov

    At its nine senior centers, the County of Kaua‘i Department of Parks & Recreation (DP&R) provides quality educational and recreational opportunities for growth and enhancement through an array of diverse programs and special events that promote community participation and environmental awareness while meeting the physical, mental, social and psychological needs of our island’s kūpuna. ■…