The Philosophy of Hanai

'Hanai defined: To nourish, to sustain; to adopt, to foster.
- Hawaiian Dictionary: Pukui/Elbert-1971

There was a time in Hawai'i when it was common practice for a family to welcome another's child into the home to nurture and raise as one's own.  The practice or tradition was called 'hanai'. This was done informally and with great love for the child.

The belief behind the practice was that it was every child's right to be raised by a family would would love, nurture and support that child in his/her growth.  The knowing was that a child would thrive given this opportunity.

Although the adoption process is formalized today with laws and regulations designed to protect the children, their birth parents and parents - the philosphy behind the concept of 'hanai' continues to serve as our guiding principle.