Hawai‘i Foodbank Kaua‘i has launched its Mobile Food Pantry "to expand access to nutritious food in rural and underserved communities across the island," the nonprofit said Tuesday.
The 16-foot refrigerated vehicle is generator-powered in case of emergency and "functions as a grocery-style food pantry on wheels, allowing families and individuals to choose the food that best meets their needs."
The nonprofit said it will visit more than 50 partner sites throughout the island on a regular schedule, offering fresh produce, proteins, dairy products and shelf-stable goods.
“Food insecurity affects one in four households on Kaua‘i, and one in three keiki,” said Hawai‘i Foodbank Kaua‘i Director Wes Perreira. “Filling gaps and reaching all of our families and neighbors on the Garden Island is a major priority for Hawai‘i Foodbank Kaua‘i. This Mobile Food Pantry is a innovative tool in making sure no family is left behind – no matter where they live.”
Funding came from the state of Hawai‘i through Grant-in-Aid, among other donors.
Last year, Hawai‘i Foodbank Kaua‘i distributed food for 1.5 million meals, including nearly 370,000 pounds of fresh produce, working in partnership with Hawai‘i Foodbank, a certified partner of Feeding America based on O'ahu. Both missions are to nourish the community and end hundger.
“Food insecurity across Hawai‘i – and especially on Kaua‘i – is a complex issue, and it is important we understand the challenges uniquely faced by our local families, neighbors and communities,” said Hawai‘i Foodbank President and CEO Amy Miller. “Most immediately, this new Mobile Food Pantry allows us to expand our reach and distribute more nutritious food to areas of need. But in addition to that, it’s a powerful example of our community coming together to create solutions that are centered on dignity, health and choice.”
For more information, visit Kauai.HawaiiFoodbank.org or call 808-482-2224.
For the latest news of Hawai‘i, sign up here for our free Daily Edition newsletter!
Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros can be reached at kelsey@alohastatedaily.com.
