{"id":412312,"date":"2026-01-17T05:24:22","date_gmt":"2026-01-17T05:24:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/412312\/"},"modified":"2026-01-17T05:24:22","modified_gmt":"2026-01-17T05:24:22","slug":"hale-makua-announces-new-careplex-and-workforce-housing-initiatives-on-maui-maui-now","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/412312\/","title":{"rendered":"Hale Makua announces new \u2018CarePlex\u2019 and workforce housing initiatives on Maui : Maui Now"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

\n\"\"Rendering \u2013 CarePlex Front entryway. Photo Credit: Hale Makua\/Guerin Glass Architects<\/p>\n

Hale Makua Health Services, a Maui-born nonprofit serving the island for 80 years, today announced two landmark projects inspired by the community. <\/p>\n

The first project is an innovative health care complex in collaboration with Hawai\u02bbi Medical Service Association (HMSA) currently referred to as the \u201cCarePlex.\u201d The second project is a 100-unit workforce housing development. Together, these projects represent a bold, homegrown solution to Maui\u2019s intertwined crises of health care access, workforce shortages, and housing affordability.<\/p>\n

\"\"Rendering \u2013 Workforce Housing Site Plan Rendering within Kahului Community Center Park- Aerial view. Photo Credit: Hale Makua\/Alaka\u02bbi Development.<\/p>\n

At a time when the state is focusing on strengthening services for neighbor islands and rural areas, the CarePlex brings a distinct, community-grounded approach. The project was conceived from decades of conversations with both community members and partners and developed by a local nonprofit organization that has cared for Maui\u2019s residents for many generations.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat began as a plan to expand long-term care for our community and k\u016bpuna grew into something far more powerful,\u201d said Wesley Lo, CEO of Hale Makua. \u201cMaui has always been a strong community with residents who look out for one another, and as we discussed with our board members and listened to our k\u016bpuna, families, caregivers, and local workforce, we heard their hopes for what health care on Maui could be. We are building on that spirit of community through the CarePlex and workforce housing projects as we aim to create a healthier, more resilient Maui supported by a shared sense of responsibility. These projects allow us to shape Maui\u2019s future and help ensure the next generation can continue to call this island home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\"(Left to right): Wesley Lo, CEO, Hale Makua and Mark Mugiishi, M.D., F.A.C.S., CEO, HMSA Photo Credit: HMSA.<\/p>\n

Looking ahead, Lo plans to transition later this year from his role as CEO of \u02bbOhana Pacific Health to focus exclusively as CEO of Hale Makua, reinforcing the importance of these projects and his commitment to strengthening health care access and community stability on Maui.<\/p>\n

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\u201cCaring for the people of Hawai\u02bbi and collaborating with health care partners are at the core of HMSA\u2019s mission,\u201d said Mark Mugiishi, M.D., F.A.C.S., CEO, HMSA. \u201cWe\u2019re committed to strengthening health care resilience in Central Maui through the new CarePlex facility. This visionary partnership model with Hale Makua will expand access to health care and support the overall health and well-being of the Maui community.\u201d<\/p>\n

Community solution for Maui\u2019s health care challenges<\/p>\n

\"\"Rendering \u2013 CarePlex Street View Photo Credit: Hale Makua\/Guerin Glass Architects<\/p>\n

With strong community input, Hale Makua began planning an expansion of its rehabilitation services to address growing care needs on Maui. Following the Maui 2023 wildfires, those conversations broadened as the County of Maui Office of Economic Development convened the Maui Economic Recovery Commission in January 2024, bringing together community leaders and key stakeholders to identify solutions that would support Maui\u2019s recovery.<\/p>\n

Through a working group led by Hale Makua, which includes representatives from HMSA, the University of Hawai\u2018i Maui College (UHMC), the Hawai\u02bbi State Department of Education, and various County of Maui departments, a more comprehensive vision emerged. Together, the group identified the need for an integrated approach that would expand access to health care and strengthen the local health care and education workforce.<\/p>\n

The group recognized Maui as having one of the most severe health care shortages in the state with a 41% physician shortfall, an unmet demand for specialty care services at 60%, and surgical shortages at 28%. Maui residents also face long wait times for health care services that require residents, especially k\u016bpuna, to travel off-island for routine procedures. The inconvenience of travel and lack of physicians creates barriers that discourage residents from seeking care, resulting in a greater risk for medical emergencies or long-term health issues. <\/p>\n

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In response, the concept of the CarePlex was formed as a comprehensive, community-driven solution to address these shortfalls and improve access to health care on Maui.<\/p>\n

Hale Makua will own and operate a higher-acuity rehabilitation center within the CarePlex, serving k\u016bpuna and individuals recovering from complex conditions such as strokes and serious injuries. To further expand access to care, Hawai\u02bbi\u2019s largest health insurer, HMSA, agreed to co-develop additional components of the CarePlex to include a state-of-the-art Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) and a physician clinic. These facilities are intended to allow Maui residents to receive same-day surgical care on-island and to help attract both residents and visiting specialist physicians to practice locally.<\/p>\n

The ASC and physician clinic are designed to support both on-island physicians who live and practice on Maui, as well as off-island specialty physicians who can travel to Maui to provide same-day procedures at the ASC and care for patients through the physician clinic. The physician clinic is also intended to provide comprehensive women\u2019s health and maternal care.<\/p>\n

\u201cExpanding access to health care across rural Hawai\u02bbi has been a central focus for our administration,\u201d said Gov. Josh Green. \u201cThe CarePlex reflects the kind of community-driven solution we set out to support, bringing care closer to home and strengthening Maui\u2019s health care workforce.\u201d<\/p>\n

Key components of the CarePlex:<\/p>\n

Kahului Rehabilitation Center (owned and operated by Hale Makua)<\/p>\n

56 skilled nursing and intermediate-care beds, plus physical, occupational and speech therapy services<\/p>\n

Ambulatory Surgery Center (developed with HMSA)<\/p>\n

Medical clinic focused on women\u2019s health and specialty care (developed with HMSA)<\/p>\n

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New workforce housing<\/p>\n

\"\"Workforce Housing Site Plan Rendering within Kahului Community Center Park. Photo Credit: Hale Makua\/Alaka\u02bbi Development<\/p>\n

A second major project also emerged from discussions led by Hale Makua through the Maui Economic Recovery Commission. A 100-unit workforce rental complex targeted for:<\/p>\n

Entry-level health care and education workers<\/p>\n

Families displaced by the 2023 Maui wildfires<\/p>\n

In partnership with Alaka\u2018i Development, Hale Makua plan to build a multifamily residential community designed to give Maui\u2019s essential workers a place to live, work, and build a sustainable future for their families. This effort responds directly to the island\u2019s urgent need for accessible housing for Maui residents, which was further exacerbated by the 2023 Maui wildfires.<\/p>\n

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With affordable housing limited on Maui, the community\u2019s ability to retain its workforce on island has become increasingly difficult. This challenge is reflected in more than 430 unfilled health care positions on Maui and around 180 unfilled educational positions in the state. By expanding access to housing for Maui\u2019s workforce, strengthening career development pathways, and supporting wages that allow residents to stay on Maui and thrive, this initiative tackles the underlying challenges driving the island\u2019s workforce shortage. The Department of Education is also looking into developing workforce initiatives that will allow more residents to pursue stable careers in education, further supporting Maui families and the island\u2019s essential workforce.<\/p>\n

The Maui County Council demonstrated support of this project through Resolution 25-139, CD1, outlining the County\u2019s intent to pursue a future land transfer at the Kahului Community Center Park for the project site.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis crucial project shows what\u2019s possible when strong local partners come together for Maui Nui. Hale Makua, Alaka\u02bbi Development and other key partners are delivering more than housing\u2014 they\u2019re providing stability for our health care and education workers and families who were displaced by the 2023 wildfires,\u201d County of Maui Mayor Richard Bissen said. \u201cWorkforce housing like this 100-unit rental complex in Kahului helps ensure that the people who care for our k\u016bpuna, teach our keiki and serve our community can continue to live and work on Maui.\u201d<\/p>\n

Growing Maui\u2019s Workforce Pipeline<\/p>\n

Over the years, Hale Makua in partnership with UH Maui College has launched several health care workforce development programs including one of Hawai\u02bbi\u2019s most successful health care workforce programs: the Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Bridge Program.<\/p>\n

\u02bbOhana Pacific Health, which supports and manages Hale Makua and other health care entities across the state, has helped produce around 60 new nurses through its workforce programs in partnership with Hale Makua, with more graduating each year. <\/p>\n

As the program expanded its partnerships, health care organizations across Maui are benefiting from its successes. Hale Makua remains at the forefront with UH Maui College in driving these visionary workforce development programs, helping support the future of health care on Maui and statewide.<\/p>\n

The CarePlex will allow Hale Makua to scale this proven model, developing the next generation of local CNAs, nurses, and health care leaders.<\/p>\n

Hale Makua\u2019s list of workforce development programs includes:<\/p>\n

Earn and Learn Nurse Aide Training Program<\/p>\n

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Program (launched in 2018 and later evolved into the CNA to LPN Bridge Program)<\/p>\n

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to LPN Bridge Program (operating since 2023; allows a working CNA to advance to become a nurse while continuing to earn income)<\/p>\n

Upcoming LPN to Registered Nurse (RN) Program (anticipated Spring 2027)<\/p>\n

Rooted in Maui, Supported by the Community<\/p>\n

As a nonprofit with deep island roots, Hale Makua has long relied on collaborative partnerships and broad community support, including strong backing from county, state, and federal leaders. Philanthropy makes a meaningful impact not only on Hale Makua\u2019s growth and stability, but on the strength and well-being of the broader Maui community.<\/p>\n

In 2020, both the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation and Harold K.L. Castle Foundation provided generous funding to support the further development of Hale Makua\u2019s health care career pathway programs. Philanthropy also continues to play a huge role in Hale Makua\u2019s ability to help support its everyday operations.<\/p>\n

So far, Hale Makua\u2019s CarePlex and workforce housing initiatives have received:<\/p>\n

Strong support from Maui County leadership including Mayor Richard Bissen, former Mayors Alan Arakawa and Michael Victorino, and the Maui County Council<\/p>\n

Support from Governor Josh Green and members of the Maui Legislative Contingent<\/p>\n

Federal support through congressional earmarks led by Senator Brian Schatz<\/p>\n

Grant-in-Aid funding<\/p>\n

Philanthropic contributions from partners like the Kosasa Foundation and the Hawai\u2018i Community Foundation<\/p>\n

\u201cHale Makua\u2019s CarePlex and workforce housing projects represent a transformative initiative that directly align with our mission of building a more vibrant and equitable community where all Hawai\u2018i residents can thrive. The wildfires intensified an already critical housing shortage on Maui, and we\u2019ve seen the devastating impact on our essential workforce,\u201d said Terry George, CEO and President of HCF. \u201cWhen our teachers, nurses, and essential workers can live in the communities they serve, our entire island benefits. We are proud to partner with Hale Makua to forge a solution that addresses housing affordability while strengthening career pathways and supporting sustainable wages. More than just building homes, Hale Makua ensures Maui\u2019s essential workers can build their futures here, and that our island communities remain strong and resilient.\u201d<\/p>\n

While these early commitments have provided critical momentum, additional funding will be needed to fully realize both the CarePlex and workforce housing projects and ensure long-term sustainability for Maui\u2019s health care future.<\/p>\n

Hale Makua\u2019s commitment to the community also includes ensuring the project is respectful of Maui\u2019s culture and legacy. As the projects move forward, Hale Makua plans to continue engaging with Maui County\u2019s Department of \u02bb\u014ciwi Resources to help guide a thoughtful and culturally appropriate approach.<\/p>\n

Together, these projects will create construction and long-term health care jobs, keep local families and skilled workers on island, reduce the need for off-island medical travel, and strengthen Maui\u2019s capacity to care for k\u016bpuna and future generations. At its core, this is a community-driven effort, and one that is uniquely Maui.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Rendering \u2013 CarePlex Front entryway. Photo Credit: Hale Makua\/Guerin Glass Architects Hale Makua Health Services, a Maui-born nonprofit…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":412313,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[59],"tags":[197766,197767,197768,20209,197769,197770,197771,98586,197772,197773,197774,97,252,253,197775,197776,197777,197778,197779,197780,197781,197782,179187,197783,197784,197785,32720,197786,197787,197788,197789,171391],"class_list":["post-412312","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-health-care","tag-2023-wildfire","tag-alakai-development","tag-ambulatory-surgery-center","tag-asc","tag-careplex","tag-certified-nurse-aide","tag-department-of-oiwi-resources","tag-hale-makua","tag-harold-k-l-castle-foundation","tag-harry-and-jeanette-weinberg-foundation","tag-hawaii-medical-service-association","tag-health","tag-health-care","tag-healthcare","tag-hmsa","tag-kahului-rehabilitation-center","tag-lahaina-wildfire","tag-licensed-practical-nurse","tag-mark-mugiishi","tag-maui-2023-wildfire","tag-maui-economic-recovery-commission","tag-maui-wildfire","tag-medical-clinic","tag-ohana-pacific-health","tag-physician-clinic","tag-physician-shortfall","tag-rehabilitation-center","tag-resolution-25-139","tag-richard-bissen","tag-university-of-hawaii-maui-college","tag-wesley-lo","tag-workforce-housing"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/412312","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=412312"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/412312\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/412313"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=412312"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=412312"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=412312"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}