HUGS gives parents and caregivers a break from the constant demands of caring for a seriously ill child. Each month, at no cost to families, HUGS children and their siblings (ages 6 months to 12 years) enjoy a safe, supportive space with fun activities and caring supervision. Every child is paired with a dedicated buddy for one-on-one attention and encouragement. While their children are engaged and well cared for, parents can relax, run errands, or simply recharge.

Family dinners bring HUGS families together in a caring, comfortable environment. While children play and have fun, parents can relax, share information, and find fellowship with others who understand the challenges of caring for a seriously ill child. Many parents say one of the best parts of HUGS is meeting other families in similar situations and discovering they are not alone on their journey.

Peer support gatherings, like Mom’s Night and Dad’s Night, offer a welcoming space where parents can connect with others who truly understand what it means to care for a seriously ill child. These monthly events combine relaxation and camaraderie, giving moms and dads a chance to share their experiences, find encouragement, and simply enjoy time together.

Siblings need care and understanding, too. Brothers and sisters of seriously ill children can sometimes feel overlooked when so much attention is focused on their sibling’s medical needs. HUGS offers SibCamp, an annual three-day camp just for siblings ages 8-15. SibCamp helps kids express their feelings, build self-esteem, and connect with others who understand what they’re going through. Through a mix of meaningful discussions, recreational activities, and all the adventure camp provides, siblings make new friends and lasting memories. Many can’t wait to come back the following year!

HUGS’ case management program, Ho‘okele—which means “to navigate”—offers families extra support during difficult times. Our case manager works closely with each family to understand their situation and connect them with helpful resources and services. These supports may include referrals to programs that help with emergency rental or utility payments, job search assistance, child care, and individual or family counseling. HUGS researches local resources, makes connections, and follows up to be sure families can access the help they need.

HUGS staff and trained volunteers make regular visits to children and their families in local hospitals to provide comfort, encouragement, and a sense of normalcy. These visits help children cope with fear, anxiety, and the boredom that often comes with hospital stays. Toys and gift cards are shared with children to lift their spirits and bring moments of joy. HUGS also provides amenity kits filled with basic hygiene items and food boxes if needed to support families during extended hospital stays.

HUGS provides airfare assistance to help families stay together when medical treatment is not available close to home. This support is available for families who need to travel to the mainland for care, as well as for neighbor island families who must come to Oʻahu for treatment. Grants and generous donations of HawaiianMiles from the community help make this support possible.

Since 1985, HUGS has partnered with the Hawaii Foodbank to provide non-perishable food to families currently enrolled with HUGS who need extra support. Donations from the community also help stock our cupboards. This service is not open to the general public.