Asha Hope Amanaki

Operation H.O.P.E (Health, Outreach, Partnership, Encouragement) was a community project for the community by the community. The idea was to reach those who were the most vulnerable during the winter months of the pandemic: those who were experiencing homelessness and those who were in nursing homes facing isolation. We wanted to make sure they know that we care about them too. 

We partnered with Shelters, Nursing homes, and Non Profits to provide individuals with little bags full of goodies. At a minimum, we provided them with:

1. Hand Sanitizer
2. Mask
3. A treat like a couple of mints
4. A word of encouragement or artwork (Greeting Cards, Origami, or 3D Printed Items)
5. A warm item (socks, scarves, beanies, mittens).

From October to February, we were able to make 5000 bags and distribute them to 64 organizations across the Portland Metro region. We worked with City officials, community members, and corporations to make this happen. 

With the success of Operation HOPE, the organizers decided to formalize their efforts to reach more people and hence was the both of Asha Hope Amanaki, which is simply HOPE in Hindi, English, and Tonga. These 3 languages represent the regions where Asha Hope Amanaki will operation and the origin of the founders of the nonprofit organization.