LIHU‘E — Among The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center team working Friday at the Kaua‘i Resource Center were two Kaua‘i boys — Bryce Kaohelauli‘i of Kekaha and Flor Jay Yago of Hanapepe.
“A couple of my regular guys are out with injuries,” said David Chung, the ARC team lead. “These guys got to fill in for this trip for the first time.”
The two workers benefited from Chung’s rolling up his sleeves to join the crew in unloading and packing residents’ and the organization’s unwanted or unneeded items for reuse.
“It’s only been two hours, and already we’ve processed more than 80 cars,” Chung said. “We already filled one can (shipping container), and that’s already been taken away. This second one is almost filled, so we’re going to have to start the overflow section.”
Shantelle Rego, KRC project manager for the county, said the shipment was about normal for a monthly donation.
She brought over new signs reflecting the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions for health and safety.
“Masks are optional,” Chung said. “But since that’s the case, we ask that people remain in their vehicle while driving through to reduce the possibility of injury because of the heavy equipment in the area.”
Kahu Wayne Vidinha of Ke Akua Mana Church drove in a pickup truck laden to near-overflow with various household items.
“We used to collect and distribute items before the COVID-19,” Vidinha said. “We had to stop when the pandemic came because of health and safety. But people kept bringing stuff to the church, so we figure we can help others by bringing them here.”
The Salvation Army ARC monthly donation collection allows residents, businesses and other organizations to bring in unwanted or unneeded items for reuse, including clothing, small furniture, children’s toys, books and shoes.
Clothing and textiles do not need to be in good condition. Torn or stained clothing is acceptable.
Chemicals, eWaste, appliances and broken items are not accepted.
Residents are asked to check with their local thrift stores to see if they are able to take donations before bringing them into the Kaua‘i Resource Center.
The ARC also offers pick-up service to thrift stores and businesses. Appointments for pick up can be done by calling 241-4336. Individuals needing home pick-up services should contact the Habitat for Humanity ReStore at 335-6105, or RP’s Random Closet at 346-0020. RP’s Random Closet is a for-profit agency.
Chung said the ARC team will be back on Kaua‘i on July 30, and then on Aug. 27. Collection times are from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the KRC.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
