HONOLULU – Hawaii is gearing up for a meaningful event. The State of Hawaii and the Hawaii Foodbank kicked off their 27th Annual State Employees’ Food and Fund Drive on March 4. This year, the drive runs until May 8.
Since its start in 1999, state workers have made a huge impact by raising food and funds for Hawaii Foodbank and its affiliates across the state. Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke is leading this campaign for the fourth consecutive year. She expressed her pride in joining fellow state employees to support the mission of Hawaii Foodbank.
“This drive reflects the spirit, dedication, and generosity of our community,” Luke said. The goal this year? To raise the equivalent of 400,000 meals to help families get access to the nutritious food they need.
The urgency behind this campaign is evident. According to the latest Food Insecurity Report from the Hawaii Foodbank Hui, almost 1 in 3 households in Hawaii faces food insecurity. This means many families struggle to afford consistent meals. Amy Miller, president and CEO of Hawaii Foodbank, highlighted the ongoing challenges, particularly among young adults. The report reveals that over half of young adults aged 18 to 29 experience food insecurity. This includes 58% of those attending college.
The funds collected during the drive will support vital operations and programs, such as School and Summer Food Programs, which aim to feed children when they need it most.
This year brings new options for support. State employees can choose a voluntary payroll deduction to make donations throughout the year, making it easier to contribute consistently.
Donations can be made at various locations, including the State Capitol and Satellite City Halls. For those who prefer online giving, donations can be made at Hawaii Foodbank.
Community efforts like these remind us that we all play a role in tackling food insecurity. By coming together and raising awareness, we can help make a difference in the lives of many families across Hawaii.
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