HONOLULU – A $100,000 state grant has been released to support the ongoing construction of the Palolo Chinese Home's skilled nursing and food service complex.

The grant-in-aid helps pay for construction of the facility, which will include 27 additional skilled nursing beds and additional long-term care units for 11 residents, according to a news release from the governor's office. The project will bring the total number of skilled nursing beds at the Palolo Chinese Home to 42, according to the news release. A new certified kitchen will enable the preparation of geriatric-designed meals for elderly residents who live at the Palolo Chinese Home, as well as in their own homes in the community.

"For over a century, the Palolo Chinese Home has served our kupuna," said Gov. Linda Lingle. "This new facility, which has received generous support from the community, will ensure the programs and services offered by Palolo Chinese Home will continue to benefit our senior citizens."

Palolo Chinese Home, a private non-profit organization, was established more than 100 years ago. It initially began as a private care home, but has expanded its services to provide nutritional outreach services, adult day care, and overnight respite care for the elderly.

Lingle previously released $1.5 million in State grants to support Palolo Chinese Homes' expansion projects. Since 2002, a community capital campaign has raised more than $13 million in private donations, foundation grants and community development block grants for the facility.