HONOLULU – A wave of generosity swept across Hawaii this past Saturday as thousands gathered for the Hawaii Foodbank’s Food Drive Day. This annual event is the food bank’s biggest fundraiser, collecting food and money from Oahu, Hawaii Island, Maui, and Kauai.
Just $10 can provide over 20 meals, while $25 can feed more than 100 people. The food bank plays a crucial role, serving around 170,000 individuals each month—double the number it supported before the pandemic.
Danny Schlag, the Foodbank’s director of marketing and communications, shared, “There’s a ton of volunteers. People are dropping off donations all across the island.” He stressed that hunger in Hawaii affects a wide variety of families; many parents work multiple jobs, and rising costs have put pressure on many households.
In recent years, food assistance programs like SNAP have faced budget cuts, making donations vital. Jared Kawatani, the Foodbank’s health and nutrition access manager, noted, “While food banks can’t replace all that, we gather support to ensure no one goes hungry.”
Community support was strong. At one donation site, people stepped up even before the collection began. “People are very generous,” said an organizer.
The Foodbank partners with various community programs, including the Hale O Honolulu Clubhouse, which assists those dealing with mental health issues. Jeff Kaplan from the clubhouse highlighted the importance of food support for their members, most of whom live on low incomes.
Adding to the excitement, First Hawaiian Bank announced they would match donations up to $50,000 during the event.
The Foodbank accepts donations year-round, whether canned goods or financial contributions. As they work to combat hunger, community involvement remains essential.
For more on how to help, visit the Hawaii Foodbank.
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