(BIVN) – Dignitaries joined the celebration on Saturday, as a hard working hui of volunteers saw their vision for temporary emergency housing for eruption evacuees become a reality behind the Sacred Heart Church in Pahoa.

After an intense community effort, 20 micro-units have been completed and will managed by HOPE Services Hawaii. Brandee Menino, the CEO of HOPE Services, read off a long list thanking the many organizations that contributed to making the project happen.

Before the blessing of the units, contractor Gilbert Aguinaldo described the inspiration for the project and HPM Building Supply safety manager Darryl Oliveira talked about the process. Mayor Harry Kim, Governor David Ige, and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard also spoke. The Hawaii National Guard, which often lent the manpower for the build, was also in attendance.