Hawaii has long been known as a tropical paradise, but in recent years another image has intruded into the state's carefully crafted one of idyllic beaches and relaxing resorts: homelessness. The number of homeless people has grown in recent years, leaving the state with 487 homeless per 100,000 people, the nation's highest rate per capita, above New York and Nevada, according to federal statistics. Many of the homeless, however, defy the stereotype of the mentally ill or drug addicted. They are families, with men and women who work full-time jobs. They are struggling to get a foothold in a place with a high cost of living and low wages. Here: in this Thursday, August 27, 2015 photo, a homeless man drinks water while sitting on the beach at Ala Moana Beach Park located near Waikiki in Honolulu. (Photo by Jae C. Hong/AP Photo)

An Emerald City Kickball member makes their way up the parade route on March 02, 2024 in Sydney, Australia. Emerald City Kickball began in 2020 as a project between friends to find a safe and affirming way to create an inclusive community during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a recreational sport that is available to players regardless of skill or experience level, kickball quickly became a vibrant piece of the Sydney LGBT community. (Photo by Don Arnold/WireImage)

Models on the catwalk for the launch of retailer Myer’s autumn 17 collection at the University of Melbourne, Australia on February 16, 2017. (Photo by Tracey Nearmy/AAP)

Looking towards the Times Building on Times Square, the Paramount Building is on the right, and Seventh Avenue on the left crossing Broadway. (Photo by General Photographic Agency/Getty Images). Circa 1930

A model presents a creation made with chocolate by designer Wang Jingzhi and Maitre Chocolatier Roberto Rinaldini during the international exhibition of chocolate “Salon du Chocolat” in Milan, Italy, February 12, 2016. (Photo by Stefano Rellandini/Reuters)

UK “Ex on the Beach” star Chloe Goodman rocks some serious sideboob in a slinky green outfit on a night out in London, England on September 13, 2016. (Photo by XposurePhotos.com)

American actress and model Hunter Schafer on May 6, 2025 made a late yet stunning entrance at the Met Gala after-party, arriving at 4AM to join the exclusive festivities in style. (Photo by Backgrid USA)

Italian-American actress and model Julia Fox and American actress Chloe Fineman attend the Marshall Columbia x Cash App Pink Party during NYFW on September 7, 2023. (Photo by Deonté Lee/BFA.com)