Theresa “Momi” Akana of Honolulu often seemed like a cross between a mother and a fairy godmother to many of the struggling families on her island. Founder of the Keiki o ka ‘Aina preschool, which strives to help underprivileged children have the same opportunities as other children, Momi’s idea was born of her own struggles as a single mother on welfare. She relied on the community for food stamps as well as emotional support for herself and her family. When Momi founded the school, she was using her own food stamps to buy snacks for the children. Over time the school expanded. Today, Momi operates a number of schools, as well as a family center, to help out families in need.

When Ty Pennington and his team of contractors, designers and decorators descend on the house, the Akanas can scarcely believe their good fortune. The house hangs precariously over a river, and threatens to collapse due to recent hurricane activity. Several other school buildings are in varying states of dilapidation and are unusable. After a tour of the facilities, Ty is quick to send the family on vacation so his team’s work can begin.

While the Akanas are gone, the teams begin to tear down the old buildings and erect new and stronger ones. The decorators incorporate the family’s tastes and needs into the designs for the new bedrooms. Ed Sanders in particular is excited about creating a special bedroom where father Ben can bond with infant daughter Poli, who suffers from Down syndrome.

When the Akanas return from their vacation, they are thrilled with their new home and brand-new community center right next door. They are touched when they see the little pieces of themselves and their community reflected in the décor. No one, though, is happier than Ben, who is delighted that his little girl has a beautiful nursery, complete with a special rocking chair for him to rock her in.

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition kicked off its new season in a spectacular way. A woman who has given so much to her community was given a beautiful home to relax in, right next to a spectacular new community center where she can continue her rewarding work. Such an inspiring celebration of community and family truly deserves to be our Best of the Week.

Best TV Show of the Week

The Parents Television Council - www.parentstv.org