Knowing the uncertainty that people are feeling during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Judiciary’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program were inspired to bring added joy to children and families in Hawaii’s foster care system.

The staff partnered with the Friends of CASA – Hawaii to deliver care packages to 89 families across Oahu on Friday, May 15.

CASA’s “Aloha WE Care” packages were assembled with many generous donations from the program’s volunteers, and included non-perishable canned goods, snacks, hand soap, detergent, toys donated by Toys for Tots, books, and Foodland gift cards.

“We are very grateful for the supportive network helping the CASA Program protect and advocate for our most vulnerable children,” said Amphay Champathong, CASA Program supervisor.

“This is just one of the many projects our CASA family, and the Judiciary, participate in that demonstrates our compassion and commitment to making a difference in the lives of the children we serve.”

The Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program (formerly known as the Volunteer Guardian Ad Litem Program) is comprised of trained volunteers who are appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child in a child abuse or neglect case in and out of court. CASA volunteers must be at least 20 years old and able to spend between 4 and 25 hours a month – serve as fact-finders, advocates, and monitors for children in need. The Judiciary provides free training and staff support for all volunteers. If you are interested in becoming a CASA volunteer, please contact the persons listed below.

• Oahu:  808-954-8151
• Maui:   808-244-2729
• Kauai:  808-482-2350
• Hawaii island (Hilo):    808-961-7672
• Hawaii island (Kona):  808-443-2105

The Friends of CASA – Hawaii is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose members support and fund projects and programs to improve the lives and wellbeing of children in foster care. You can donate to their ongoing efforts at:

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