The renovation of a Moloka'i mental health facility began with $19,000 in county taxpayer dollars.

It will be finished with an estimated $130,000 worth of money, goods and services from the private sector.

The appropriately named Hana Ka Lima — Many Hands Working Together — is an inspired example of how crucial state social services can stay afloat in the coming tidal wave of state spending cuts.

Members of the Rotary of Metropolitan Honolulu will travel to Kaunakakai this weekend to do an "extreme makeover" of two homes. The facility will serve as a support system for those with mental illlnesses or addictions. It will be a vast improvement over the current decaying building, with large dining and meeting areas, a certified kitchen, space for education and job training, and a garden.

The $19,000 went for building materials and garden supplies. The rest — from architectural services to plane fuel, even the land — was donated or offered at a discount. And more supplies are needed: Call 721-0748 to donate.

Eventually, it's hoped that Hana Ka Lima can graduate to a fully staffed clubhouse, offering certified rehabilitative services to the more than 80 people on Moloka'i who now have no access to them.

It will require more state funding; but thanks to the boost from the private sector, surely it's a goal within reach.