LIHUE — Both Enterprise Holdings and Kauai Walmart helped the Hawaii Foodbank Kauai Chapter recently.
Walmart donated about 88,000 pounds of food for needy island families in fiscal year 2018, the equivalent of about 73,000 meals.
It’s part of an overall 1.4 million pounds of food and more than $2.8 million in cash and in-kind contributions Walmart made to Hawaii nonprofits and food banks during fiscal year 2018.
Enterprise Holdings donated $8,000 to the food bank Wednesday.
“Hunger is often a hidden and quiet crisis. A majority of those hungry will never say, ‘I’m hungry,’” said Ron Mizutani, a Kauai native and president and CEO of Hawaii Foodbank.
“But the reality is one in eight people in Hawaii goes to bed hungry every night. We cannot do what we do without the support of businesses like Walmart. What Walmart contributes annually to address hunger in Hawaii is absolutely phenomenal and life-changing. They are difference makers.”
The Hawaii Foodbank, Kauai Chapter accepts donations from many organizations, individuals and companies on the island and accepted another check on Wednesday from Enterprise for $8,000.
Diane Keeler, Kauai Walmart store manager, who also serves on the board of the Hawaii Foodbank Kauai Chapter, was on scene to accept the Enterprise check.
She said in addition to the 88,000 pounds of food Kauai Walmart gave to the Hawaii Foodbank Kauai Chapter, Kauai Walmart associates provided more than 380 hours of local volunteer services throughout the fiscal year.
“At Walmart, we are committed to help fight hunger in our local communities,” said Lance McAlister, Hawaii market manager for Walmart. “It’s our mission to create opportunities so people can live better through the grants and in-kind donations we provide to local organizations or through our Walmart associates and their community volunteer efforts.”
Walmart U.S. stores, clubs and distribution centers award cash grants to support local nonprofits. The Walmart Foundation also provides funds for equipment, trucks and logistical expertise to support non-profit organizations extend their reach and impact and help those in need.
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Jessica Else, staff writer, can be reached at 245-0452 or jelse@thegardenisland.com.
