About “Second Helpings Hawaii”

“Second Helpings Hawaii” is a nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization created in September 2017. Its purpose is to assist women in transition who seek mentoring, counseling, rehabilitative services and employment opportunities upon the completion of their prison sentences and re-entry back into society.

“Prison Graduates Six Student Chefs” – from Midweek 2015

Motivated to be successful upon their release from prison, they are immediately faced with the challenges of securing stable employment. Frustrations run deep as the stress of this challenge often results in the women returning to the prison system when they are unsuccessful in mentally transitioning and securing a means to support themselves and their families.

“Second Helpings Hawaii” was created under three separate support pillars:

• employment opportunities supporting women interested in sponsored areas such as culinary arts, construction, seamstress, computer support, and catering services
• rehabilitative services provided by a certified psychotherapist
  

  “Stitching a life behind bars” – from Honolulu Advertiser 2001

• faith-based support rendered to provide healing and hope

“Second Helpings Hawaii” provides women an opportunity to “transition with ease” by “offering a hand” and advocating on their behalf in the midst of significant challenges.

With your donations, “Second Helpings Hawaii” makes a tremendous difference but also saves government funds used to house women due to recidivism, whether they are living in government or privately-owned prison facilities. All donations directly support the women and provide necessary human services.

Women’s Correctional Facility in Kailua, Hawaii – photo by Maricar Amuro

Many years of experience mentoring and supporting women in transition at the Kailua Women’s Community Correctional Facility has shown me that they want to succeed. I truly believe with the right support and encouragement they can succeed. They want a second chance and I want to be able to offer this to them.

“Second Helpings Hawaii” provides HOPE and EMPOWERMENT to get back on track and stay on course. We offer new life skills, counseling services, tools and employment opportunities to facilitate a successful return to their families and community.

Your support will be the key to easing the transition back into the successful lives after making amends for past choices.

Thank you for helping “SECOND HELPINGS HAWAII” change lives.

With highest regards and much appreciation,
Cathy Williams