From the Desk of Heather Lusk

Aloha Friends,

The past six months have been some of the most challenging in recent memory for public health and harm reduction. At H3RC, we have seen both the growing needs of our community and the increasing political pressures that threaten the very strategies proven to save lives. Through it all, your support has remained a source of strength and hope.

Recently, the Executive Order titled “Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets” has raised deep concerns about how our nation addresses harm reduction, Housing First, and essential supports for our most vulnerable communities. While others may choose fear and punishment, H3RC will continue to choose dignity, care, and science-based strategies that prevent overdose, reduce disease, and close health disparities. We know that public health and harm reduction efforts not only save lives, but they also save money.

Now more than ever, we must raise our collective voice. Together, we can advocate for solutions that prioritize life and safeguard the health of our communities. Together, we can ensure that public health remains at the center of the conversation, not pushed to the margins.

I invite you to stand with us. Advocate with us. Support us in this critical moment. When you do, you help create a Hawaiʻi where compassion triumphs over stigma, and where every person has the chance to live with dignity and hope.