The Institute for Human Services (IHS) today received a $35,000 grant from the Nareit Foundation to replace the hot water tank systems serving 30 affordable housing units at Kahauiki Village.

Located in Kalihi Kai, Kahauiki Village is a plantation-style, permanent, supportive community of 144 affordable housing units for formerly homeless households operated by IHS. More than 550 residents, comprised of families, individuals, and the elderly, live full-time at Kahauiki Village.

The Nareit Foundation grant is funding an essential project to install 12 on-demand, tankless water heating systems, along with the necessary plumbing and labor, to replace the failing hot water tank systems serving residents in 30 housing units at Kahauiki Village.

IHS Executive Director Connie Mitchell noted the project will benefit 129 residents and preserve Kahauiki Village’s standing as a valuable resource for addressing family homelessness. Mitchell said, “Mahalo Nareit Foundation for recognizing how this seemingly non-descript improvement in hot water access, while environmentally and fiscally sound, makes for happier families!”

Nareit Hawaii Executive Director Gladys Quinto Marrone commented, “We’re honored to support the mission of IHS and the purpose of Kahauiki Village by funding an important quality-of-life project that helps our fellow residents live in a safe, clean and healthy environment where children are raised and adults work toward a better future.”

The 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 like IHS.