For over 30 years, Tutu and Me preschool programs have been a cornerstone of child development in Kona, Waimea, and Honokaa. As a parent and member of this cherished community, I can personally attest to the profound impact this program has had on my family and those around us. The love and attention from the dedicated team, the Aunties, Uncles and Kumu's are unparalleled. They have nurtured generations of keiki, fostering a safe and enriching environment that allows both children and parents to thrive.

In the Waimea area, there is a pressing need for quality keiki care programs. Tutu and Me stands out not just as a place of education, but as a true ohana where children feel loved, encouraged to explore their potential and how to care for the land and people. An entire community bears witness to the benefits of these programs in shaping confident, kind, and knowledgeable youth.

However, recent budget cuts threaten to dismantle this invaluable resource. The ripple effect of losing Tutu and Me would extend far beyond preschool education, impacting employment and economic stability for families of the staff and bases for community that starts in these early school years.

Communities like ours in Kona, Waimea, and Honokaa cannot afford such a loss. We need strong, future-oriented development for our keiki, and it begins with supporting the foundational services that guide them in their formative years.

We ask the local government and stakeholders to recognize the integral role of Tutu and Me and to reinstate the necessary funding to keep these programs operational. It’s not just about dollars—it’s about investing in our future, our children, and our community’s well-being.

Please join us in this effort to protect an essential resource by signing this petition. Your support can make a profound difference.