‘We’re not giving up’: Hundreds of volunteers put in sweat equity to revitalize Chinatown

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Nearly 300 volunteers took part in a big cleanup in Chinatown on Saturday hosted by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

Yu Shing Ting, of the chamber, said more businesses were reached as part of the second annual event.

“Because we had so many volunteers, we could really spread them out throughout Chinatown so that we could try to reach every block that we could,” said Ting.

She added that many of the businesses donated supplies.

Nearly 100 city workers took part in the clean-up along with police officers from the Chinatown district and officials from the local, state and federal level.

“What we want to do more than anything, and what this is about today, is about creating hope in our community,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi.

CIty Prosecutor Steve Alm said many of the homeless in the area are dealing with mental health, drug, and alcohol problems.

“We’re trying to get them into treatment to get them off the street but keep them off the street,” said Alm. “With the efforts of the police supported by the mayor, crime is down about 60% in this area.”

U.S. Attorney General of Hawaii Clare E. Conners said the event was all about collaboration.

“We have limited resources, but when we work together, we’re able to produce a lot more for the public,” she said.

Ting said businesses have been noticing a difference in their community.

While they know criminals could return to tag businesses, Ting says they won’t stop efforts to keep Chinatown clean and safe.

“We’re not giving up; we’re going to keep going and keep doing this until they stop and they give up,” she said.

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