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Foster Kids Find Safe Haven in New Program
23 Sep
Summary
- New Keiki Now program provides temporary housing for difficult-to-place youth.
- Program offers 24/7 care with behavioral health professionals.
- Cost of the pilot program is approximately $3.2 million in its first year.
Foster children facing placement difficulties are now finding refuge in a new residential program initiated by the Department of Human Services. This Keiki Now program, launched last month, aims to temporarily house and rehabilitate youth who are challenging to place with families.
The program provides an 18-bed facility on Oʻahu, staffed around the clock by behavioral health professionals. The pilot initiative, costing approximately $3.2 million in its first year, addresses the long-standing issue of children sleeping in government offices or hotels.
This new facility caters to children with the highest needs, including behavioral issues, developmental disabilities, and trauma. The Department of Human Services has struggled to find foster families for these children, leading to instances where over 30 children slept in offices or hotels between 2023 and 2025.
The Keiki Now program offers therapeutic supports and crisis intervention, aiming to stabilize children until they can be placed in a more permanent home. Currently, the program is caring for six children aged eight to 17, with a team of 35 professionals ensuring their well-being.
