The nonprofit Arc of Maui County received a $15,000 grant from the Nareit Foundation for the installation of new, industrial grade appliances in four group homes offering affordable housing to 20 residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities on Maui.

The grant funded the acquisition of upgraded washing machines and dryers in the laundry rooms for each of the group homes to support the residents’ health and safety, and improve their ability to live as independently as possible on a daily basis.

The group homes, two in Kahului, one in Kihei and one in Lahaina, each have five full-time residents and are equipped with five individual bedrooms, three shared bathrooms, and other basic amenities to sustain the residents’ daily living needs, all under the guidance of Arc of Maui County staff members.

Arc of Maui County Chief Executive Officer Aspen Wallwork said, “Having new washers and dryers are vital for our services and care of our residents. With five or more loads per day per house, the new appliances help provide clean clothes, bedding and housing essentials to ensure we meet hygiene standards, operate the homes more efficiently, and allow our residents to be more independent. These new appliances offer larger capacities, are energy efficient, and are durable enough to withstand heavy usage for many years. Our residents and staff are excited about the upgrades to our laundry rooms. Mahalo to the Nareit Foundation for another year of support!”

Nareit Hawaii Executive Director Gladys Quinto Marrone noted, “It’s a privilege to contribute to the wonderful work being done by the caring professionals of Arc of Maui County as they support the residents of these group homes to be safe, healthy and happy every day.”

The Arc of Maui County grant is funded by the Nareit Foundation, a Section 501(c)(3) organization, and REITs operating in Hawaii as part of the Nareit Hawaii Community Giving Initiative, which supports affordable housing projects provided by nonprofits.