Nā Kama a Hāloa is a community-based network established in September 2018 that integrates Native Hawaiian wisdom and perspectives into Hawai‘i’s foster care system. The network comprises representatives from Native Hawaiian-serving institutions, state Child Welfare Services, service providers, as well as birth parents and youth with lived child welfare experience. Their collective goal is to eliminate the disproportionate representation of Native Hawaiian children in the child welfare system by 2030.
The network envisions a reimagined child welfare system grounded in Native Hawaiian culture and values, sustained by deep, positive relationships that heal and strengthen individuals, families (‘ohana), and communities. To achieve this, Nā Kama a Hāloa collaborates with various partners, including Child Welfare Services, Lili‘uokalani Trust, Kamehameha Schools, EPIC ‘Ohana, Inc., and others.
The name “Nā Kama a Hāloa” reflects the network’s commitment to nurturing and honoring children as beloved descendants, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity and familial bonds in promoting their well-being.
