Big Island Substance Abuse Council CEO Dr. Hannah Preston-Pita and her daughter, Deannah Che Preston, worked for two months on a project called Operation Compassion to compile therapeutic kits for abused children and victims of domestic violence. ADVERTISING Big Island
Big Island Substance Abuse Council CEO Dr. Hannah Preston-Pita and her daughter, Deannah Che Preston, worked for two months on a project called Operation Compassion to compile therapeutic kits for abused children and victims of domestic violence.
This mother and daughter team, with the help of BISAC, successfully put together more than 70 completed kits in backpacks. Each backpack included a blanket, stuffed animal, toiletries, coloring books, notebooks, pencils, crayons and a storybook.
“It really saddens me when children have to experience abuse, especially alone,” said Deannah Che, a high school senior who wanted to make a difference in children’s lives. Her purpose was to show abused children they are not alone and people care.
Together, mother and daughter have seen the outpouring of support.
“We are so fortunate to live in a community that everyone pulls together to inspire change and we are humbled and grateful for all the support” Preston-Pita said.
Encouraged by the support, BISAC will continue Operation Compassion as an annual campaign to benefit the Children’s Justice Center, a program that provides support to abused children and victims of domestic violence.
Since 1964, the Big Island Substance Abuse Council has been inspiring individuals and families to reclaim and enrich their lives.
“These kits will continue our mission and hopefully make a difference in our community,” Preston-Pita said.
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