ABOUT US

Who we are

Hana Kīhāpai is a community-rooted initiative formed under the Hawai'i Primary Care Association to strengthen how health and community partners deliver care across the islands. We exist to close gaps in access, reduce inequities, and help programs thrive, not just survive.

We provide the administrative and financial backbone, so community programs can focus on people, not paperwork.

The Meaning Behind Our Name

Our name was inspired by growth, connection, and cultivation—much like a thriving garden. Through collaboration with our team members and Board of Managers, a cultural practitioner from Waimānalo Health Center shared several name ideas. After thoughtful discussion and a network vote, Hana Kīhāpai was chosen: any activity that supports Kīhāpai, a place—a garden, field, farm, or business entity—where growing and nourishing occur.

Hana Kīhāpai reflects the spirit of Hawai'i's community health centers: united in purpose, grounded in culture, and working together to cultivate thriving, healthy communities.

Why we exist

Community-based programs like the National Diabetes Prevention Program were making real impact, but sustaining them was difficult. Complex billing, administrative demands, and unstable funding created barriers to long-term success. Hana Kīhāpai was created to fill that gap, providing shared infrastructure and coordinated support so local programs can grow and endure.