Hawai’i Care Choices to host free Season of Light celebration

Hawaiian Santa and one of his elves will make a special appearance during this year’s Season of Light celebration hosted by Hawai‘i Care Choices.

The special mahalo celebration is free and open to the public. The event is scheduled for 5:30-7 p.m. Dec. 14 on the lawn of Hawai’i Care Choices Pōhai Mālama Care Center at 590 Kapi‘olani St. in Hilo.

“This year’s Season of Light will focus on the unconditional gratitude we have for all of our patients, families, donors, volunteers and local businesses who support us each and every year,” said Helene Andrew, clinical services director of Hawai‘i Care Choices, in a press release.

The gathering is to honor the triumph and resiliency of the community. The Season of Light event illuminates the hope that good things are ahead, while taking a moment for gratitude for everything people have and have had to overcome.

“The last two and a half years of the COVID-19 pandemic added untold challenges to the specialized care we provide,” said Brenda Ho, Hawai‘i Care Choices CEO, in the press release. “However with the support of our community, we are thankfully stronger because of it. Serving our families during their highest time of need continues to be both a privilege and honor for all of us.”

There will be holiday crafts, keepsake ornament making, holiday carols and amazing performances by Kamehameha Schools Keiki Choir and Dancers, along with festive cookies, treats and, of course, the delightful visit from Hawaiian Santa, who will bring his fishpond filled with special surprises. Everyone is also invited to take a moment to add their own memorial ornament to the “Light up a Life Tree” and pose for a keepsake photo.

Free parking will be available at two locations: Christ Lutheran Church at 595 Kapi‘olani St. and Hilo Higashi Hongwanji Mission at 216 Mohouli St.

Masks are kindly recommended, and donations are always welcome and appreciated.

For more information, click here.