Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce

Shelter is one of the three primary drives of human nature. Many people living in Kona have need for the most basic shelter. They are either victims of Post Traumatic Stress syndrome, have other mental health issues or they are families whose income cannot support today’s market rents.

 

Homelessness is a national problem and an issue that all communities must face in their own way. To improve the overall business climate in the community, businesses on the West Side of Hawaii Island, must look to proactive ways to lessen or mitigate the effects of homelessness on the overall community. Business is negatively affected by the presence of a homeless population. People who live without shelter are also living without security in their lives and are unable to take care of even their basic needs. Their presence detracts from the comfort of people who are potential customers for the businesses in the community. It is not possible, either legally or morally, to eliminate the homeless population, however, it is possible to design and implement programs that will provide the structure and means to lessen the effects of homelessness on the community. To improve the business climate it is essential businesses understand the problem is not going away and the best that can be done is to make a positive effort to help those who will accept help, in their efforts toward living more productive lives.

The Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce supports the building of a 32 bed shelter that would afford a nighttime alternative to living on the streets. In addition, we support the completion of the Kaloko Housing Program and other projects as well which would offer affordable units for people who transition away from the shelter.