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Pacific Islander Initiative (PII)

The Pacific Islander Initiative (PII) addresses health disparities in Pacific Islander communities and connects families to services they may not know about but are eligible to receive.

Description

Based on a 2005 needs assessment, the initiative targets barriers such as language, lack of culturally sensitive services, fear of government institutions and misinformation. PII works to change systems and policies through education and awareness, prevention, capacity building and leadership. The initiative is supported by Behavioral Health & Recovery Services through its Office of Diversity & Equity.

Service Focus

Stigma reduction, culturally responsive outreach and education, prevention and capacity building and improved access to behavioral health and related services for Pacific Islander residents.

Membership

Open to Pacific Islander community members, families, partners and allies.

Key Functions

Connects families to services, addresses identified barriers to care, and advances culturally sensitive approaches through education, prevention and leadership development.

Contact

Tia Bell (she/her), Co-chair
TBell1@smcgov.org

Epi Aumavae (she/her), Co-chair
eaumavae@samoansolutions.org