Programs

Programs

HUGS provides services at no cost to qualified families

Monthly and Emergency Respite

HUGS provides parents and caregivers the opportunity for much needed personal time away from the intense demands of caring for a seriously ill child. Free childcare is offered in a safe and supportive environment so that parents have time away to do whatever they wish. HUGS also offers emergency respite assessed on a case-by-case basis according to need and staffing.

Monthly Family Events

Monthly dinners allow parents time to relax, share information and provide support and fellowship to one another in a non-threatening, caring environment.

Peer Support Groups

Peer support gatherings provide a non-judgmental environment for specific peer groups. These fun, focused activities allow participants to freely share feelings while supporting one another within a group that understands the experiences and challenges they all face.

Hospital Outreach

HUGS staff and trained volunteers make regular visits to local hospitals to visit children and their families. As part of the outreach, HUGS offers:

• Silver Lining Toy Chest – New toys and gift cards are given to children undergoing painful treatments such as a spinal tap or bone marrow aspirations.
• Laughter Wagon - Trained volunteers engage children, teens and siblings with interactive games and activities that help to reduce stress and anxiety.

Airfare Fund

This fund allows eligible families an annual stipend in emergency airfare assistance in order to transport their child and other family members for treatment or procedures that are required on Oahu or the mainland. Eligibility is based on financial need.

Neighbor Island Outreach

HUGS provides neighbor island families with phone cards, taxi or rental car stipends, and airfare to Oahu.

Kokua Kupboard

Since 1985, HUGS has accessed the Hawaii Foodbank as well as solicited assistance with donations from the community in order to provide food to needy HUGS families.

Funeral Fund

The fund provides up to $1,000 to HUGS families to assist with funeral arrangements after the death of a beloved child. Eligibility is based on financial need.