What does HUGS stand for?

HUGS stands for Help, Understanding & Group Support

How long has HUGS been around?

HUGS was started in 1982 by a group of volunteers from Unity Church as they saw there was a need to support families as they care for a seriously ill child.

How does HUGS support families?

HUGS provides tailored peer support programs for each member of the family to guide them on their journey of caring for a seriously ill child. HUGS support 300+ families and over 1,000 family members statewide.

Is there any cost to families to use HUGS’ services?

Our services are 100% free and we do not charge our HUGS families for any or our services, programs and events.

What kind of families are eligible to be a member of HUGS?

Families must be a resident of the state of Hawaii with a child aged 0-21 that has been diagnosed with a life threatening illness or disease.

What kind of services does HUGS provide?

HUGS provides emotional and financial support, including peer support programs geared towards each member of the family, airfare assistance for off-island medical procedures, monthly food baskets, diapers, case management services, and hospital visitation.

What kind of illnesses do HUGS children suffer from?

HUGS provides support for families with a seriously ill child suffering from a wide array of conditions, from cancer to birth defects. For the full list of conditions click here.

How do families join HUGS?

HUGS receives referrals from physicians from Kapiolani Medical Center, Kaiser and Tripler Army Medical Center, based on criteria of conditions. Download an application.

Is HUGS only located on Oahu?

HUGS only has one location on Oahu, however HUGS provides services statewide. Our office is located at 3636 Kilauea Avenue in Kaimuki.

How does HUGS get funding?

HUGS is a local non profit 501(c)(3) organization that relies on the donations from individuals, businesses, foundations and grants. With a staff of only 7, HUGS relies heavily on support from volunteers and the local community.

How can I volunteer with HUGS?

HUGS accepts junior volunteers from ages 15 through 17 and adult volunteers 18 and older. To learn more about volunteers opportunities, click here

I want to support HUGS. How can I contribute?

You can donate to HUGS via cash, credit card, check or online. HUGS also accepts in-kind donations including gift card for our families, new and unused toys for our HUGS keiki and non-perishable food for our pantry. For more information, click here