Fifty storage sheds have been delivered to Lahaina, each one a testament to the hands-on learning and generous spirit of the University of 贬补飞补颈ʻ颈’蝉 Maui College. This effort, dubbed the Hale Pāpaʻi Project, has been fueled by students who are not just learning construction skills but also embodying the value of kōkua—help and assistance—for their community.
Through the generosity of a private donor, the college was able to offer free, one-week basic construction and painting classes. The Maui Strong Fund at Hawaiʻi Community Foundation then added its support by providing materials to construct the 50 sheds, and the Hale Pāpaʻi Project came to life. Instructors and their students built the sheds from the ground up, providing both a valuable service to the community and hands-on learning for students.
In the process of construction, students gained skills in building trades, such as making braces, building a skeleton and frame, roofing, installing fascia, drywall, interior and exterior trim, flooring, siding, sheer wall, and installing a window and door, along with mudding, taping, texture and painting.
“Students are able to keep the tools and belts issued to them on Day One,” said Chancellor Lui Hokoana. “Many of them come back just to help out and bring those tools with them. They say it feels good to kōkua. One thing we know for sure, these beautiful sheds are built with aloha and we hope the recipients feel it when they receive their hale.”
The project is part of 东精影业 Maui College’s ongoing commitment to the recovery process following the August 2023 wildfires, an effort that began immediately after the disaster with thousands of meals prepared, workspace provided to relief organizations, and school supplies drives. The shed project addresses a need voiced by rebuilding residents.