Kids Hurt Too Hawaii, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and young adults experiencing grief or trauma, is offering monthly peer support groups in Lahaina and Wailuku to assist families impacted by the wildfires and other challenges. These sessions are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment where keiki (ages 3-19) and their ‘ohana can process their experiences, build resilience, and connect with others who understand their journey.

PEER SUPPORT GROUP DETAILS:

In Wailuku:

When: Every second Thursday of the month, next group is Thursday, January 9, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where: J. Walter Cameron Center Auditorium, 95 Mahalani St., Wailuku,

In Lahaina:

When: Every third Monday of the month, next group is Monday, January 20, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where: Lahaina Comprehensive Health Center, 1830 S. Honoapiilani Highway, Lahaina (below the Civic Center).

Families are encouraged to register online or contact Kids Hurt Too Hawaii’s Maui Program Director, Marissa Meerians, at marissa@kidshurttoo.org or 808-298-4877.

A past participant shared, “Kids Hurt Too Hawaii was helpful for me because it showed me how many other kids had been through similar things and how they coped with it.”

Kids Hurt Too Hawaii offers a range of peer-support programs, mentoring, and activities to help children heal from emotional wounds caused by trauma, grief, or loss. The organization supports keiki who have experienced the death of a loved one, family separation, foster care placement, or other difficult circumstances.

“Our mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment where young keiki can share their stories, learn coping skills, and connect with others who understand their journey,” said Marissa Meerians, Maui Program Director. “We are committed to strengthening families and communities across Hawaii.”

For more information about Kids Hurt Too Hawaii and its programs, visit www.kidshurttoo.org.

Kids Hurt Too Hawaii is a partner with the Ho‘ōla iā Mauiakama Long Term Recovery Group, a nonprofit uniting local organizations to support Maui's recovery from the August 2023 wildfires by providing resources and coordinating efforts to help survivors rebuild and foster a resilient future.