Some Puna and lava-relief organizations were beneficiaries during a check distribution event July 31 at Puna Community Medical Center in Pahoa.
The Hawaii Community Foundation, led by representative Malu Debus, received nearly $1,900; Kua O Ka La Charter School, represented by head and co-founder Susie Osborne, received , $1,000; Sacred Heart Parish of Pahoa, led by the Rev. John Molina, got $1,000; Neighborhood Place of Puna, represented by executive assistant Ilona Finley, received $1,000; and the Mainstreet Pahoa Association, represented by board director Amedeo Markoff, received nearly $1,300.
“The checks came from the Imua Puna fun and fundraiser held at the Eagles Club at the end of June, which generated over $6,000 from donations and ticket door sales,” said Ariel Murphy, organizer of the fundraiser and PCMC board member.
Sponsors of the Imua Puna event were PCMC, which gave the largest donation of $2,000, Island Naturals, Hank Correa Realty, Larry and Caroline Dupio, Orchidland Neighbors, Laulima Pahoa, the Mainstreet Pahoa Association and the musicians who provided free live music for the event.
Participating bands and musicians were Tina Baugh Garber, Steve Fundy and the JPGS, Girls Nite Out, Body N Soul, D.D. and the High Rollers, Russell Ruderman and Terrapin Station, Soultown and NA Hoku winner Larry Dupio and his band.
Door prizes were provided by Kapoho Kine Tours, Hawaii Island Realtors, led by its executive director Kehaulani Costa and board president Kapono Pa, Laurie Medeiros of Title Guaranty Escrow, Caroline Dupio, KTA Supermarket, Lucena Nicolas of Pineapple Homes, Cafe 100 and Jewel Victorino of Lu La Rue Clothing.
“Most everybody in our island community pulled together within a short period of time so that people in Puna, especially those affected by the lava flow, can have a bit of fun while raising money to support different organizations helping lava evacuees,” Murphy said.