LIHU‘E — Hunger on Kaua‘i continues to persist to some of the highest levels in the last century, as a combination of inflation and rising food prices have intensified hunger on the island.
Statistically, more than 10,000 local residents continue to struggle with hunger. This includes 1 in 4 keiki.
That has led Foodland to once again partner with Hawai‘i Foodbank to launch “Project Keiki” a statewide, monthlong program that provides lunches and meals to keiki who may not have access to school lunches.
Foodland customers are invited this month to donate and support local keiki along with food banks in the Hawaiian Island chain. The endeavor also supports Hawaii’s Pantry program and Kauai’s Summer Snacks program.
“This campaign is so special,” said Hawai’i Foodbank Tisha Remigio, Kauai Assistant Director. “We are super fortunate for Foodland for putting on this campaign, we have collaborated with a lot of farmers to focus on healthy eating and all around we are grateful that everyone on Kauai helps further our reach.”
Last year, Hawai‘i Foodbank stocked 13 school pantries in the County of Kaua‘i, and provided more than 2,800 nutritious snacks to nearly 900 students and their families.
“Our reach also helps service Ni‘ihau. We get food out to them to the barge, of course, weather permitting,” Remigio said. “But it’s such a blessing to provide the school and the students with meals.”
On average, nearly 2,000 keiki take advantage of the program during the school year.
“Donate to this amazing campaign,” added Heidi Padilla, Kaua’i Keiki Nutrition and Outreach Specialist. “If you want to take something back with you, purchase a ‘Pin Pals’ they’re Taro-ffic and remember we recommend anyone (local or visitor) to get involved and is welcome to volunteer or simply drop off any left-over or unopened items to us.”
There are five ways to get involved: Donate $5 at checkout, round up your purchase to the nearest dollar, donate your change, donate 250 Maika‘i points or purchase a set of stylish Foodland Pin Pals for $5, which were specifically crafted by Foodland’s in-house designers and include local jargon, local foods and animals.
Keep in mind that the program goes beyond school meals, Hawai‘i Foodbank also offers after-school snacks for students and additional family food bags to take home. The program extends into summer and supports the County of Kaua‘i’s Summer Fun Program and Boys &Girls Clubs.
“It’s really hard to sleep at night sometimes and we want to drive away hunger completely and that’s our ultimate goal, we want everyone to have access to healthy meals. I don’t want to see anyone hungry, we are trying our best to conquer this issue and assist anyone who needs it, so please get involved and donate,” Remigio said. “We are grateful to have companies like these that support us and the keiki.”
