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Tierra Tauanuu’s journey on Pathway of Hope began over a year ago, when she came to The Salvation Army Community Assistance Center (CAC) in Honolulu seeking financial assistance.
Through that experience, she was referred to her case manager, Abraleen Burke. She shared her story with Burke, explaining she was ready for more direction and changes in her lifestyle.
Tauanuu unexpectedly lost her husband over three years ago, leading to a season of financial distress, working two jobs to care for her son with disabilities all while studying medical administration.
She said The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope, which provides individualized services to families who find themselves in cycles of crisis, has given her direction in the midst of trials and grieving.
“The Pathway of Hope Initiative has helped me with financial assistance, giving me a clear path to work towards goals for my son and I,” Tauanuu said. “I was able to prioritize and get out from under the dark cloud that was looming over me.”
With all of the hardships following her husband’s sudden death, Tauannuu said she faced eviction. In addition to the financial assistance she received, she said Burke has been a source of encouragement for her, and has helped her connect with other resources, like the organization Helping Hands for furniture.
“[They] also helped my son get involved in the Special Olympics, where [he can] be a part of a community that he doesn’t need to change for,” she added.
Tauannu said Burke is a perfect match as her case manager, as the pair share similar life experiences.
“Abraleen is an amazing extension of God’s work…her heart to serve has given me so much hope that in the midst of these hardships, God will see me through,” Tauannuu said.
Burke said she’s learned from Taunauu, too, and she’s seen growth through her journey. In addition to the financial support she’s found through the Pathway of Hope, Tauanuu has learned to cook healthy meals and lean on her strong family support.
“The Pathway of Hope Initiative has helped me with financial assistance, giving me a clear path to work towards goals for my son and I.”
Tierra Tauanuu
“She is a labor of love and strength for her family,” Burke said. “Her transformation began before entering into Pathway of Hope, yet she continues to transform herself into the woman, mother, sister and daughter that God has made her to become.”
Another source of hope in Tauannuu’s story was found at the doors of The Salvation Army Kroc Center Church in Ewa Beach, where she has been a member for many years. It’s where she and her husband were married years ago. She shared her gratitude for then officers (pastors) Lt. Colonels Phil and Debbie Lum, who officiated.
“[They were] there when my son was in the NICU, through countless miracles that happened with my family and prayed and spoke at my husband’s funeral,” Taunauu said.
She explained that the “heart of God’s people never stopped,” as she continued to be shown love throughout the church with prayer and encouragement through her journey of healing.
Current Kroc Center Corps Officers Majors Lynn and Osei Stewart are also key individuals who continue to encourage Taunauu’s family, she said.
“There has been an immense amount of love and prayers throughout the entire congregation,” she added.
Through this encouragement, prayer and hope provided through The Salvation Army’s Pathway of Hope and Kroc Center community, Taunauu continues to work through the challenges presented before her in life, leaning on all those who are showing love to her.
“I am continuing the journey to heal and rebuild a life for my son and I after this devastating loss, but with the help of this program, it has given me the confidence to set short and long-term goals,” Taunauu said.
“The consistent communication between Abraleen and I stands as a reminder that I am not in this alone…my anxiety and depression no longer have a hold on me, and I am able to follow the path that we generated.”
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