Molokai is the fifth largest in the chain of Hawaiian islands, it is only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide. It has only one major town with just a few stores and no traffic lights. According to the 2000 census, the population of just over 5,000 has one of the largest poverty rates in the United States — a staggering 26 percent. The unemployment rate approaches 16 percent. In addition, 20 percent of those over 18 have no high school diploma, and drug use is quite prevalent. Many church groups consider Molokai a mission field.
The Molokai Mission School, which serves grades three through eight, had only one student enrolled at the beginning of the year (it now has three). Because of the low enrollment, the school was losing money, and the conference had to consider closing it, but that one student, Kimmy, was determined to save her school.
Kimmy’s teacher, Alisha Jensen, met Kimmy at the school’s open house last August. “I was anxious to meet the only student enrolled in the school I moved across the ocean to teach,” said Jensen. “I knew instantly that she was worth it. Her eyes glistened, her smile inviting and sweet.”
To correct a speech problem resulting from premature birth, the little girl had endured three surgeries in the past year. “At her private school in the Philippines, her fellow classmates teased her because it was difficult to understand her when she spoke,” said Jensen. But “these challenges did not hold this resilient girl back. She is an enthusiastic learner, a gentle spirit, generous with all things, a lover of animals, musical, and a bit of a tease.”
Through all her medical and personal challenges, Kimmy’s faith remained strong. She believes in Christian education. “I want to graduate from Molokai Mission School like my dad and my grandma did,” Kimmy said. “I don’t want my school to close, so I am going to fundraise.”
With the help of her family and community, “Kimmy has already raised more than $500 by participating in the local pizza café’s school fundraising program and sending out letters to former church members, family, and friends,” explained Jensen. “Her passion has inspired not only those who know her well, but also the Hawaii Conference, as well. The conference staff and executive committee members came together and raised $510 out of their own pockets for Kimmy’s Fund.”
“Molokai may be part of the United States of America,” Jensen said, “but this is truly a mission field. We know that God can do great things through this school. Please pray that more students will find their way to Molokai Mission School so they can learn about Christ’s love. Pray that Kimmy can achieve her dream of graduating from eighth grade and continuing on to Hawaiian Mission Academy in Honolulu.” For more information, contact Molokai Mission School at P.O. Box 248, Kaunakakai, HI 96748.
