HCUCC Disaster Ministries Responds to Critical Needs

Originally published in the Coconut Wireless, March 16, 2022.

The HCUCC Disaster Ministries team, led by Coordinator Danny Tengan, in conjunction with Wesley United Methodist Church, held a very successful donation relief effort for Tonga. After filling a 40' container bound for Tonga with clothes, linen, water, personal protective equipment (PPE) and other assorted donated goods, another 26 pallets remained and a second 40' container was secured. The United Methodist Church funded both containers. The Hawai'i Conference UCC funded the rental of the forklift and provided the majority of the workforce to sort, pack and load the container. In addition, the Kahala Ward local Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), the LEO club from Kaiser High School, the Angel Network Charities Pantry and the Palolo Lions were involved with the effort. There were also volunteers from the First Chinese Church of Christ in Honolulu, Waiokeola Congregational Church, and Hawai'i Kai UCC who provided much needed assistance. Thanks to all for your support and prayers!

The HCUCC Disaster Ministries team also has been volunteering at the water distribution point at Kapilina Beach Homes in Ewa Beach to provide bottled water to those who were affected by the tainted water from the Red Hill incident for the last four months. Residents came every day to pick up two cases of water to bathe, cook, and drink. According to the local news, the community will be back online this week and has the ok from the state Department of Health for normal water use.

Any church that would like PPE, such as face masks, face shields, hand sanitizers, thermometers, and oximeters for their congregation, please text Danny Tengan at 808-620-5403. Remember, we will have the Coronavirus disease with us for a very long time. Now is not the time to let our guard down. Stay vigilant—wear a face mask, wash your hands regularly, and social distance yourself. Best of all, get vaccinated!