County program on Kauaʻi helps 369 homeowners prevent foreclosure, funds ongoing support services

The County of Kauaʻi announced that its Homeowner Assistance Fund program has closed after successfully assisting 369 Garden Isle homeowners prevent foreclosure since its launch in November 2021.

The HAF program was administered by local nonprofit Hawaiʻi Community Lending (HCL), which disbursed over $2.65 million in financial assistance for past due mortgages, HOA fees, property taxes, homeowners’ insurance, and utilities. HCL also worked with mortgage servicers to obtain loan modifications for homeowners who were unable to afford their monthly payment.

“Four years ago, the world was rocked by COVID-19 and while we didn’t know it at that time, our lives would never again be the same. During the pandemic, in addition to ensuring the health and safety of our loved ones, people were also faced with not knowing whether they could keep a roof over their families’ heads. But finding hope in the midst of uncertainty is what keeps our community moving forward and that’s exactly what the Homeowner Assistance Fund provided for our people. Through this program, Hawai‘i Community Lending helped households avoid foreclosure here on Kauaʻi. We are truly grateful for their support as they guided our residents through financially challenging situations and gave them hope for their future,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. 

“Many of our Kaua‘i homeowners struggled financially in the aftermath of the pandemic, and they had fallen behind on their mortgage payments. We thank Hawai‘i Community Lending for working diligently to launch this program, helping hundreds of families avoid foreclosure and being with them every step of the way,” Said Kaua’i County Housing Director Adam Roversi.

HCL Servicing Director Kahaunani Mahoe-Thoene expressed her gratitude for the financial assistance the Kaua‘i community received. “During the pandemic, financial support was a lifeline, turning uncertainty into hope and helping us bridge the gap from survival to recovery,” Mahoe-Thoene said. “It wasn’t just support, it was a beacon of hope that showed we are not alone in this struggle.” 

“I am immensely proud of our HCL team’s dedication and compassion,” she continued. “Their tireless efforts in administering financial assistance have not only provided vital support to those in need but have also been a testament to our collective commitment to making a difference during these difficult times.” 

The numbers of homeowners assisted by the Kaua‘i HAF program points to the tremendous need for housing help in our islands. HCL offers not only grants and programs, but low-cost mortgage loans, construction loans, debt consolidation and more—all aimed at helping kānaka keep their homes, build homes or buy homes. 

With the HAF financial assistance having been fully expended, the County will continue to fund HUD housing counseling and legal services to help homeowners who are still at risk of foreclosure.

Homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure are encouraged to contact the following agencies to receive support:

Hawaiian Community Assets
3116 Akahi Street, Līhuʻe, HI 96766
808-587-7886
kauaifoc@hawaiiancommunity.net

Legal Aid Society
2970 Haleko Road, Ste. 101, Līhuʻe, HI 96766
800-499-4302

If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability, contact 877-477-5990 as soon as possible. Requests made as early as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.

For more information about the impact of the Kauaʻi County HAF program, visit www.HawaiiCommunityLending.com/haf/