LIHUE — A weeklong food collection campaign started Monday and continues through Friday, in partnership with the Hawaii State Public Library System and the State of Hawaii, through the Office of the Lieutenant Governor.
The food collection was prompted in response to the ongoing federal shutdown, and disruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Food collected during the weeklong drive at Kauai’s public libraries — located from Princeville through Waimea — will support food banks across the state.
During the food collection period, Kauai residents are encouraged to bring canned goods and other nonperishable food items to their local public library during the library’s normal business hours. The collected food donations will be distributed by the Hawaii Foodbank, the Maui Food Bank, The Food Basket and their partner agencies to ensure residents continue to have access to food during this challenging time.
All library branches, including the Princeville, Kapaa, Lihue, Koloa, Hanapepe and Waimea branches on Kauai, will serve as collection hubs, according to a press release.
“In Hawaii, we take care of one another — that’s the true spirit of kokua,” said Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, the food drive leader. “As families across our state feel the effects of the federal shutdown, we are asking everyone who can to lend a hand. Every can, every donation, every act of aloha helps feed our families and strengthen our communities.”
Gov. Josh Green recently announced coordinated relief efforts to support food access statewide, including $2 million in state funding to help Hawaii’s food banks sustain essential operations, and $500,000 from the Farm to Families program to purchase local food for distribution.
“Libraries have always been the heart of our communities, where people connect and care for one another,” said State Librarian Stacey Aldrich. “We are honored to support the Kokua Food Drive and hope our collective efforts help nourish every person and family across Hawaii.”
Monetary donations to the Hawaii Foodbank, Maui Food Bank, and The Food Basket are also welcome and can be made online at www.hawaiifoodbank.org/kokua.
Source: The Garden Island