Flores Blooms From Blueprint to Build: A Carpenter’s Homecoming
At 87 years old, Margarita Flores, has long managed a single room in a shared home as her permanent residence.
The thought of homeownership wasn’t at the forefront of her mind anymore until she received an unexpected phone call from the Department of Hawaiian Homelands honoring her with a piece of land in Waimanalo‘s Kakaina Subdivision. As the matriarch of four generations of Flores family members. She enlisted the support of her son, Vernon Akina (affectionately known as Uncle Vern), along with her granddaughter Katrina and great-grandchildren, to help bring the dream of building a home together to life.
Uncle Vern, a retired carpenter from our local union, discovered Honolulu Habitat for Humanity and embraced the chance to build his own home. After constructing six Habitat homes and countless repairs for others in our program, his home build began in March 2024, and finished by June.
“Thanks to his exceptional carpentry skills and support from yours truly, this house was completed most efficiently, and in less time, a testament to the expertise he has brought to many Habitat for Humanity projects.” – Mike Kailio, Habitat Superintendent
Uncle Vern’s dedication to serving others as a Habitat homeowner demonstrates a prime example of the impact that one person can have on so many others. More than two hundred dedicated volunteers came together with the Flores ohana to bring their dream to reality, contributing over 1,600 volunteer hours to build their home from the ground up.
The Flores home dedication took place on August 15, 2024, and was one of the most heart-felt. Surrounded by loved ones and community members this multi-generational family finally received the keys to their new “plantation inspired” hale. A timeless little green and white house that will serve as much more than just a roof over their heads.
“It is a home where the family can come together, particularly during the holidays. Last Christmas, our tree was set up under a tent outside. But now, we have a real home where we can be comfortable,” stated Uncle Vern. As we approach festive season our affiliate could not be more thrilled to make this announcement recognizing the Flores family for completing their Home Build journey.
Their 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home marks our 93rd Habitat Home Build.
Mahalo to affiliate partners Department of Hawaiian Homelands, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Catholic Campaign for Human Development, Howard Hughes at Ward Village, Maryl Group, Booz Allen, PPG and Urban Farm Store for supporting this family’s journey.
Our goal is to make a greater impact on Hawaii’s affordable homeownership needs. With the ongoing support of our volunteers, donors, and community, we’re committed to building more homes, serving more families, and reaching new milestones. This mission is a shared endeavor, and your dedication to Honolulu Habitat is an investment in both our community and the future. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, more families like the Flores family will gain the strength, stability, and self-reliance everyone deserves.
All photos courtesy of Edward Freeman