You've got to hand it to Genshiro Kawamoto — he means what he says.

When the billionaire announced last October that he would help Hawai'i's affordable housing crisis by renting out his expensive homes in Kahala to the poor, it was easy to be skeptical. Kawamoto's image hasn't always been that of a philanthropist. In 2003, after years of being accused of being a greedy slumlord, he shed extravagances such as his limousine.

Then there's the question of unrealistic circumstances, given the upscale area. Even with the low rent, can these families afford an electricity bill that goes with the size of the home?

Such questions merit concern, but for now, Kawamoto is taking what he calls his "Kahala Ave. Mission" and making it a reality.

Kawamoto is going through with plans to rent out four Kahala homes to low-income families, with preference to Native Hawaiians. The homes are all worth in excess of $2 million, and they range from 2,397 to 4,304 square feet.

Normally, the houses rent for $5,000 a month. But Kawamoto is offering three-year leases for $150 to $200 a month.

Though Kawamoto's preference to help Hawaiians may still be an issue with Fair Housing laws, his out-of-the-box thinking when it comes to affordable housing deserves recognition.

Some residents have embraced the idea, saying that they would love to see families in Kawamoto's homes. It's that kind of support that will lead to more help for the state's less fortunate.

Kawamoto may be seen as many things, but it's hard to question an act of charity, especially when he appears to be delivering on his promise.

And when it places families into good homes.