Mental Health Kokua (MHK) is actively seeking to improve the conditions in Honolulu’s Chinatown described by Oren Schlieman (“With more crime putting area at risk, 24/7 police patrols are needed — now,” Star-Advertiser, Insight, Nov. 18).

MHK operates the public hygiene center at Pauahi Hale where our homeless services are housed.

To be clear, MHK staff closely monitor the hygiene center where drug dealing, street sex and other illegal activities are not tolerated. We often call the police and work closely with law enforcement officers. We participate in the Chinatown Watch sign program, work with merchants to conduct assertive homeless outreach, and support efforts to fund a security guard for added safety.

And we’re getting results: MHK has successfully placed more than 80 people experiencing homelessness into housing in 2018. And with that housing comes the opportunity for them to begin again.

MHK will continue to partner with the community, law enforcement and other city entities to provide much-needed services while building community trust, relationships and goodwill.

Greg Payton

CEO, Mental Health Kokua

Ala Moana

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