HUI' OHANA Food Distributions

Our monthly food distribution initiative, in collaboration with Hawaiʻi Community College, The Food Basket, and other community partners, is dedicated to addressing food insecurity among students and residents across Hawaiʻi Island.​

At the heart of this effort is the Kahuaola Basic Needs Center at Hawaiʻi CC’s Manono Campus. Supported by a grant from the Stupski Foundation, Kahuaola offers a food pantry, hygiene products, and referrals to essential services. This center serves as a vital resource, especially considering that 31% of Hawaiʻi CC students reported experiencing food insecurity in the prior 30 days, and 50% of those facing basic needs insecurity did not apply for campus support due to lack of awareness or knowledge on how to access these services. ​

In addition to on-campus support, Hawaiʻi CC students actively participate in community food distribution efforts. At the college’s Mauliola farm, students cultivate and harvest produce, such as bananas and ʻulu (breadfruit), which are then donated to The Food Basket. Since 2023, over 1,000 pounds of fresh produce have been contributed to support families in need. ​

The Food Basket, Hawaiʻi Island’s food bank since 1989, plays a pivotal role in these initiatives. Through programs like DA BOX, a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, The Food Basket purchases and aggregates Hawaiʻi-grown fruits and vegetables from over 50 farms annually. These are then distributed to residents via affordable subscription services with weekly pick-up locations throughout the island, including Hawaiʻi CC campuses.

This collaborative approach not only addresses immediate food needs but also fosters community engagement, supports local agriculture, and promotes sustainable practices. By integrating educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and community members, the program strengthens the resilience and well-being of Hawaiʻi Island’s communities.​