Housing Fair to help people affected by Kilauea eruption

Hawaii County is hosting a Housing Fair aimed at rebuilding the community following the Kilauea eruption in lower Puna.

The event, titled “Kukulu Hou — Rebuilding our Community — for Those Who were Affected and Those Who Want to Help,” is slated for 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 17 at Keaau High School.

The Housing Fair will provide an opportunity for residents affected by the lava to get one-stop assistance and guidance from Realtors, financial institutions, builders and other private and government entities. The general public also is invited to get information about building or renting affordable housing.

Featured information sessions will include the topics of low-interest loans, the building permit process, real estate opportunities, insurance and other matters.

Residents can consult one-on-one with representatives of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and will hear presentations about the basics of government loan programs from the Federal Housing Authority, USDA Rural Housing and the Veterans Administration.

There will be a Keiki Fun Zone and Exhibit Hall, featuring geologists, local builders, real estate agents, financial empowerment experts and other vendors.

Throughout the day, eruption survivors will be invited to participate in “Share your Story,” coordinated by the county Office of Housing and Community Development. Every survivor has a different story to tell about their struggles, triumphs and unique road to recovery. Stories will be collected and compiled for future reference as the community heals together.

For more information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 961-8211.