Where will we serve here on the Big Island?
Our primary mission field is Hawaiian Ocean View. While the town's name evokes visions of a paradise with breathtaking ocean views, the reality presents a stark contrast. Ocean View, often referred to as "The world's largest subdivision," boasts over 10,500 one-acre lots and more than 150 miles of paved roads, offering many nice homes with electricity and ocean views. However, the town, characterized by isolation and remoteness, grapples with a high overall poverty and crime rate. The most poverty stricken population are Pacific Islanders with 63% of them and 100% of African Americans living below the poverty level. Many of those living in poverty live off-grid without essential amenities such as power, running water, and internet/Wi-Fi, reflecting conditions reminiscent of the Third World within the United States. Drug-related crime is very high here and many children and youth are neglected and live way below the poverty line. It is in lava zone 1 & 2, which means that it is in the most dangerous area affected by the world's largest active volcano, Mauna Loa, and the majority of HOV is covered in black lava rock -desolate, isolated and far from the two major towns of the Big Island, Kona and Hilo.
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Notably, the majority of marginalized individuals in HOV are Marshallese, displaced due to US military nuclear testing and radiation. During our outreach in early 2021, we encountered the resilience and beauty of the people but were deeply moved by the struggles faced by at-risk youth and the living conditions of many residents, particularly Pacific Islanders. This broken and unseen side of so-called "paradise" is where we are called to go and bring joy and hope to the community with healthcare and youth programs. We do want to make a difference in the lives of people in need.
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Our initial plan involves monthly visits to HOV with a team of dental care professionals and volunteers, setting up 3 dental chairs to provide urgent dental care at Ocean View Community Center. Health education initiatives will empower the community to care for their dental and overall health. As we secure more volunteers and financial support, we aim to later introduce a medical team and incorporate STEM and other youth and children's programs, ultimately striving to make a lasting difference in the lives of those in need and see the transformation of the community.
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