Volunteers bring life to the Food Vault Hawaiʻi (FVH), which hosts a monthly Food Drop at the Campus Center. Each month, they distribute around 8,000 pounds of food, helping students at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa who struggle with food insecurity. This effort is part of the university’s Student Involvement & Leadership Development (SILD) program.
Bonnyjean Manini, the SILD director, emphasizes the role of volunteers. They are vital for receiving, sorting, and handing out food. FVH collaborates with the Hawaiʻi Foodbank and the Hawaiʻi Health & Harm Reduction Center for their supplies.
She notes, “Volunteers show empathy, commitment, and hard work—qualities that make these events possible.”
Joy in Giving
Richard Bradshaw, a dedicated volunteer and former instructor, returns each month for one simple reason: helping others fills him with happiness. He believes that offering support without judgment is immensely rewarding.
He recalls a moment when a student hesitated to ask for assistance at the Food Drop. “I understood her embarrassment and did my best to comfort her,” he shares. Such experiences remind us that food insecurity can impact students deeply, affecting their dignity as well.
Food and Knowledge
Lara Hackney teaches in the Food Science and Human Nutrition program. She started volunteering with FVH in 2019 and returned after the pandemic, seeking to create a supportive environment for students. “I want them to feel safe here, especially during difficult times,” she says.
A New Perspective
Stephen Wagner, a third-year physics student, began volunteering as part of a service project. He has previous experience with food banks on Hawaiʻi Island and understands how crucial FVH is. Recent data shows that 84% of attendees at a Food Drop identified as UH Mānoa students.
“It’s tangible to see the food disappear as people come through,” he explains. “I hope everyone feels secure and welcomed.”
Supporting FVH
FVH will hold its next Food Drop on December 10 at the Campus Center Courtyard, starting at noon while supplies last. They also have a Holiday Drive for stocking their pantry, running until January 2. Non-perishable food items and toiletries can be dropped off at the SLD office in Campus Center Room 208, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For those wanting to help more, monetary donations are accepted through the UH Foundation. Updates and volunteer opportunities are available on FVH’s Instagram.
Addressing Basic Needs
For UH Mānoa students facing unexpected challenges, the UH Mānoa Student Basic Needs Fund provides one-time grants to help them get back on track. More information is available on the UH website.
Injustices like food insecurity affect many college students today. With the right support, systems like FVH can make a real difference, offering not only food but a sense of community.
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