Expanding Local Capacity for Psychological First Aid on Hawaiʻi Island

 Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a critical component of effective disaster response. In the aftermath of emergencies, timely and practical support from trusted community members can help stabilize those affected and reduce long-term impacts.

In preparation for the upcoming disaster season, Vibrant Hawaiʻi facilitated training in Psychological First Aid (MVI-PFA) for first responders, mental health professionals, and community members across Hawaiʻi Island. This initiative resulted in the certification of 20 new local instructors who are now equipped to lead PFA efforts in their communities.

These newly trained instructors have already conducted sessions reaching 51 individuals in Hilo and 30 in Kona, expanding the island’s capacity to provide immediate, compassionate, and culturally grounded support during times of crisis.

Investing in local training ensures that assistance is both accessible and responsive to the unique needs of each community. It is a practical step toward building a more prepared and resilient Hawaiʻi Island.