IRINA’S STORY
Imagine finding yourself in a country where you don’t speak the language. Simple tasks like asking for directions, using public transit, buying groceries, or visiting the doctor suddenly become daunting challenges.
For Irina, life became overwhelming after her husband passed away. He had managed all their finances, ensuring bills were paid on time. Left alone, Irina faced a daunting new reality: understanding bills, making payments, and avoiding potential consequences for missed deadlines.
When Irina feared her electricity might be shut off, she reached out to HECO for help. However, the language barrier left her feeling frustrated and isolated. It was a distressing moment until HECO contacted Helping Hands Hawai‘i’s Bilingual Access Line.
Through the Bilingual Access Line, Irina was connected with a Russian interpreter. Finally able to communicate her concerns, she worked with the HECO representative to transfer the account into her name, ensuring she could manage her future bills independently.
This act of compassion and support not only resolved Irina’s immediate crisis but also provided her with a sense of relief during a difficult time of loss and adjustment. Stories like Irina’s illustrate the invaluable impact of bridging language barriers to provide essential services and support in our community.
