A blessing ceremony was held Thursday for construction of the Kukuiola Emergency Shelter and Assessment Center in Kailua-Kona.

The project will include 16 emergency shelter units for the homeless, a manager’s unit, a 2,000-square-foot assessment center, community restroom facilities with showers, a 1,400-square-foot community center, and a shared kitchen.

Additionally, office space for case management services and resources will be provided, along with open areas for community-building activities. The center also will offer overnight parking for unsheltered individuals sleeping in vehicles.

“Today is about bringing hope, care, and aloha to our people,” Mayor Kimo Alameda said in a news release. “These facilities will give families and individuals a safe place to rest, get help, and star

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