Remembering, healing, being safer community: Kapoho community members invited to special gathering

Kapoho community members are invited to a special event this afternoon Thursday, June 11, to share food, stories, memories and support.

Kapoho Crater Gathering is aimed at honoring people community members have lost, providing a space for grief and recognizing the challenges that affect the community, which was destroyed by the 2018 lower East Rift Zone eruption and lava flows of Kīlauea volcano.

The event is scheduled for 1 to 5 p.m. Thursday at Kapoho Crater Farm, which can be accessed through the double gates about 100 yards before the road ends at Kumukahi.

“This gathering is not only about remembrance — it is also about connection, conversation and collective action,” says information from a flyer posted on Facebook. “Together, we will discuss ways to strengthen our community, support one another and improve safety and well-being, and explore meaningful steps we can take moving forward.”

It is an alcohol-, drug-, weapons-, drama-, hate- and animal-free event. Aloha vibes, however, are more than welcome.

Those who attend are asked to bring a dish to share. They should also bring their own beverage, chairs and umbrella or other item for shade, as shade is limited in the area. If anyone has chairs or a table to share, they also would be greatly appreciated.

What else to know

• The driveway is long and gravel. It is not level, so low-to-the-ground vehicles might want to be more mindful.
• The land is still primitive since the 2018 lower East Rift Zone eruption of Kīlauea. While level, it’s not the ideal environment for small children.
• If you come with keiki, keep an eye on them the entire time.
• There are no trees, so there will be no natural shade.
• Because of a lack of shade and mostly direct sunlight, it also is recommended raw food is not brought to share.

Visit the Kapoho Crater Farm website for additional information.