Sister Beatrice Tom, chief administrator of Our Lady of Kea’au in Waianae, Hawaii recently received the “Hana Like Kakou: Many Hands Working Together” award from the U.S. veterans for her commitment to providing housing and services to homeless families. When the county of Honolulu closed the Kea’au beach park to the homeless, there was an even bigger need for housing. Sister Bea responded by offering services at Our Lady of Kea’au to this underserved group on the Waianae Coast.
Sister Bea collaborates with Sister Donna Marie Evans and a host of volunteers to provide more than 300 weekly meals and supplies to homeless individuals. In addition, 10 homeless families reside at Our Lady of Kea’au where they are empowered to develop the skills they need to live independent, healthy lives. Truly, it takes a village and a vision.