Unlocking Local Flavor: How a Statewide Partnership is Boosting Food Access and Supporting Hawaiʻi Farmers

Ho‘ōla Farms is making a real difference in food security on the east side of Hawaiʻi. By teaming up with local elementary schools, they’re working to provide fresh, nutritious food to families who need it most.

Through the program “ʻUmeke ʻAi Pono,” they connect with small and medium-sized farmers, ranchers, and food producers. The goal? Supply underserved communities with fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins from local sources. This initiative, part of a larger effort organized by the Hawai‘i Food Hub Hui, runs until July 5, 2025.

So far, they’re on track to distribute around 58,565 food boxes. Each box, valued at roughly $50, contains 9 to 11 pounds of local produce, starches, fruits, and proteins. This effort goes a long way in strengthening Hawaiʻi’s food systems, especially for families in Volcano, Mountain View, Pāhoa, and Keaʻau.

Partnering with Kua O Ka Lā Public Charter School and Mountain View Elementary School allows Ho‘ōla Farms to reach families effectively. By distributing food through schools, they not only provide nourishing meals but also build a strong connection between local agriculture and education.

Each food box includes seasonal staples like bok choy, sweet potatoes, papayas, and locally sourced eggs or tofu. This variety ensures families receive a balanced diet. To date, Ho‘ōla Farms has distributed over 5,200 food boxes, benefitting about 450 families, or roughly 1,825 individuals. This means about 52,040 pounds of local food has supported 19 small farmers and producers.

Experts emphasize the importance of such initiatives. Food scarcity affects millions, and local programs like these help reduce reliance on imported foods, which can be costly and less fresh. Recent statistics show that food insecurity in some regions of the U.S. can be as high as 10% to 15%, making local support more critical than ever.

This program not only nourishes bodies but also strengthens local economies and fosters community spirit. By choosing to support local farmers, we’re building a more sustainable food system for everyone.

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