Honolulu's newest medical respite center opened in Iwilei on Tuesday.
The Iwilei Resource Center is set to accommodate up to 19 patients at a time. While receiving care, coordinators will work to find permanent housing for patients within one month.
"This facility will allow us a place to take the most vulnerable in our community to receive medical treatment and valuable support in a clean, safe and dignified environment," Mayor Rick Blangiardi said.
The facility's opening was delayed several times and cost $17 million by the time it opened Monday.
Patients will be provided with hygiene assistance, clothing, medical care and more. Services will be available seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
"Homelessness is complex," said Jim Ireland, director of Honolulu Emergency Services.
"Effective solutions require a team effort and multiple strategies for success. This new medical center is one necessary component," Ireland added.
The Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement Program will be the primary team to identify new patients.
Coordinators have already established care with several patients, and they plan to work with hospitals for patient referrals.
Blangiardi and the city's EMS Department said they hope the center will set those most in need on a path toward stability.
