Coming together to fulfill Our Mission of:
Helping People In Need Regain Their Independence
Coming together to fulfill Our Mission of:
Our Work
Supporting Houseless Communities
Supporting Houseless Communities
Supporting Houseless Communities
We have helped houseless communities all over Oahu. Our approach is simple, we treat each individual with care and respect, asking them what they need and we get them exactly that. This includes items ranging from hygiene products, camping gear (tents, tarps, flashlights, batteries, first aid kits, etc.), shoes and clothing to hot meals, groceries, cooking equipment, blankets and bibles. We have assisted with helping people find treatment centers, housing and reuniting them with family.
Preventing Houselessness
Supporting Houseless Communities
Supporting Houseless Communities
We are completely aware of the substantial uprise in houselessness, therefore we place intentional focus on being proactive to prevent houselessness by providing financial assistance for essentials such as rent, utilities, communication (cellphone & internet), childcare, children's needs, household products, transportation (gas & bus passes) and other expenses. Join us in our endeavor to keep people in their homes where they belong and Waking Up Smiling.
Donate to Waking Up Smiling
Join us in empowering individuals and communities through your generosity. Your donation will help us bring about positive change in our community and together we can make a difference in the lives of those in need.
The Waking Up Smiling Story
A Little Bit of History
My name is Donna Lynn Rodriguez and I am the CEO and Founder of Waking Up Smiling, a 501(c)3, formally known as God's Tithing Foundation, which was established in 2015.
Many years ago I struggled with drugs and alcohol, and through a series of bad decisions, ended up houseless in the streets of Waikiki. With no place to go, no money and very few friends, I realized I was lost in a person I never thought I could or would be. In the midst of this, I remember walking around and feeling invisible, lost and hopeless. It was the most humiliating and humbling feeling I have ever experienced. Now, well over a decade later, my life is turned around, my heart is turned towards God and helping people in that same situation and those that are on their way there.
We are dedicated to assisting individuals and families facing housing insecurity. We provide a range of support services, including assistance with rent, utilities, transportation, food, household products, and other essential needs, to help people stay in their homes and overcome the challenges of houselessness. We strive to help everyone live a life where everyday they are Waking Up Smiling.