Nonprofit buys 42 acres in Hilo for affordable housing

The nonprofit Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement has announced the acquisition of 43.08 acres of land in Hilo that will be designated for affordable housing.

This acquisition signals CNHA’s plan to establish a private land trust specifically for housing Native Hawaiian and other Hawaii families, according to a press release. The parcel, located in the Kaumana subdivision of Ponahawai, was purchased for an undisclosed amount from a landowner who wishes to remain anonymous.

“Our commitment is to ensure that Native Hawaiian and other Hawaii families have access to affordable housing options — too many of our families are leaving the islands,” said Kuhio Lewis, CEO of CNHA. “We need to be innovative, think outside the box, complain less, and be part of a solution to turn this narrative around. This project is a significant step towards our goal and will help to ensure that Hawaii lands remain in our hands.”

Over the next 3.5 years, CNHA plans to develop the parcel and provide up to 88 affordable single-family homes.

The development of these homes is in direct response to the growing need for housing solutions that enable families to remain in Hawaii. CNHA is dedicated to creating sustainable communities where Native Hawaiian and other Hawaii families can thrive.

Details about CNHA’s land trust program and how to apply will be announced as soon as more information becomes available.

“This acquisition and decision to create a private land trust comes on the heels of our announcement that the next Native Hawaiian Convention will be held on Hawaii Island, further demonstrating our commitment to supporting and investing in communities across Hawaii,” Lewis said.