From Policy to the People with Aloha: Hawai'i Project LAUNCH & Office of Wellness and Resilience

The Hawai’i State Department of Health has created multiple collaborative efforts in Hawai’i to address the critical need for early childhood mental health support. Projects and partners like Aim High, the Office of Wellness and Resilience, the Department of Health, and the Palama Settlement, are all working together to implement Project Launch.
The Hawai’i State Department of Health understands the concerning rise of mental health challenges among youth in Hawai’i, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Statistics reveal alarming rates of chronic sadness, hopelessness, and suicidal ideation among teenagers, while a significant number of younger children face diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorders.
Project Launch emerges as a beacon of hope, aiming to promote wellness and resilience in at-risk young children and their families. The initiative focuses on five key areas: early identification and referral, equipping primary care providers, developing family workshops, providing mental health consultation to childcare providers, and establishing young child wellness councils within communities.
Hawai’i's Palama Settlement, a community hub with a rich history of serving those in need, is a vital partner in this endeavor. It offers a safe and supportive environment for children and families, providing various educational programs, sports activities, and essential services.
The Hawai’i State Department of Health emphasizes the importance of nurturing healthy relationships during the crucial early years of a child's life. By fostering strong connections between children, families, caregivers, and providers, and by implementing evidence-based practices, Hawai’i strives to build a more resilient future for its youngest generation.