our mission
We are dedicated to making a positive difference for the keiki of Kaua‘i who experience abuse and neglect. We do so through providing awareness, advocacy, assistance and support to keiki and the Children's Justice Center of Kaua‘i.
The Friends of the Children's Justice Center of Kaua’i is a volunteer-led non-profit organization that was founded in 1991 to support the Children's Justice Center of Kaua’i.
The Children's Justice Center of Kaua’i provides a safe, neutral environment for children who have experienced abuse or have witnessed crimes; and offers a variety of services, including forensic interviews, medical exams, counseling, and legal advocacy.
We work in two ways:
direct support for children
We support children who have experienced or are at risk of sexual or physical abuse, or neglect. Children who have been traumatized often need help and support to heal and grow into healthy, active young people. Often, funds for everyday activities and essentials may not be available. We work to build a bridge for children whose lives have been upended. We offer essential items such as clothing, personal care products, school supplies, bus passes, and financial assistance for therapy or after-school activities, and more.
assistance for the Children’s Justice Center of Kaua’i
We also support the Children’s Justice Center of Kaua’i through sponsoring inter-agency trainings and continuing education for the many professionals who work with these children and their families.
Our volunteer Board of Directors is made up of dedicated Kaua'i residents, each bringing a unique skillset to the table, all committed to supporting the island’s children.
The following are the some of the types of support we provide to children:
Health - Medical, dental and psychological services not covered by other resources
Education - Tutoring, GED preparation, partial private school tuition, school supplies and uniforms
Transportation - Funds for school excursions, therapeutic family visits and travel with family
Special Needs - Clothing, food, utilities, housing and other needs of the child
Self Esteem/Self Worth - Opportunities to pursue special interest activities through participation in age appropriate community activities
Trauma can have a profound, lasting impact, especially on children. Research shows that its effects can be reduced when protective factors are in place, such as strong social connections, positive coping skills, self-esteem, optimism, and secure attachments to caregivers and community members. Our organization was founded with the mission to provide opportunities for children who have faced trauma to engage in activities that strengthen these protective factors. In doing so, we support their healing and help them grow into emotionally and physically resilient young people.
Children who have experienced trauma often need extra support to heal and grow into healthy, active young people who can fully engage in activities with their families, friends, schools, and communities. For children removed from abusive situations, the immediate disruption in their lives can leave a void. Funds for everyday activities that help them feel like "normal" kids may not be available. This is where the Friends of the Children's Justice Center of Kaua'i steps in. We work to build a bridge for children whose lives have been upended, often by someone they trusted.
Every April is national Child Abuse Prevention month
Keep an eye out for our blue pinwheels around the community and follow us on social media for ways to get involved.
Testimonials
"Thank you for the backpack and all the stuff in it, my favorite thing is the pretty blue blanket! :)
and the shampoo & hair brush.”
"Thank you for all the supplies. I enjoy using the lamp to read at night. Thank you for helping me with my problem."