These standout stories deserve another read.

“It’s like you’re in that middle zone where you’re making too much to receive help, but you’re not making enough to really prosper.”

“A big concern of mine is maintaining the quality of life and not being in a position where my kids feel a sense of lack.”

“Being frugal is an important aspect to living in Hawaii.”

“Even if you save $5 a month, you’re closer than you were last month.”

“I’m 31 years old and people think I shouldn’t be getting help from my parents, but I think that’s a reality that a lot of my generation is facing.”

“If we sold our house and got rid of all our debt and then tried to start afresh, we wouldn’t come back to Hawaii. There would be no way to come back.”

From breaking news to months-long investigations, here’s a look at some of our best work this year.

“This is the community that shaped me, that taught me the values that guide my life day to day. I want that for my child.”