HONOLULU (KHON2) — The state will launch the Kōkua Food Drive to support those who are affected by disruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.
The drive will be conducted in partnership with the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System from Nov. 3 to Nov. 7, with donated goods going to local food banks. Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke will be leading the drive.
To participate, bring canned goods or other nonperishable food items to local public libraries — all libraries in the state are participating except for the ones in Kaneʻohe, Wahiawā and Lāhainā. Donations will be collected during branch hours, which can be found online.
“In Hawaiʻi, we take care of one another — that’s the true spirit of kōkua,” Luke said. “As families across our state feel the effects of the federal shutdown, we’re asking everyone who can to lend a hand. Every can, every donation, every act of aloha helps feed our families and strengthen our communities.”
This comes as Gov. Josh Green announced state funding to close funding gaps left by the federal government’s lack of SNAP funding. The drive also emphasizes the role of libraries in communities.
“Libraries have always been the heart of our communities, where people connect and care for one another,” State Librarian Stacey Aldrich said. “We’re honored to support the Kōkua Food Drive and hope our collective efforts help nourish every person an family across Hawaiʻi.”
Food donations can also be collected at the Office of the Lieutenant Governor at the state capitol during business hours: Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For food bank information by island, Oʻahu and Kauaʻi residents can visit the Hawaiʻi’s Foodbank’s website, The Food Basket for Hawaiʻi Island and Maui Food Bank for the Valley Isle.