Following the recent wildfires, Maui United Way has unveiled its groundbreaking Mā‘ona Food Security Grant, aimed at bolstering food security for vulnerable populations in Maui County. This initiative underscores the organization's unwavering commitment to supporting local organizations that provide nutritious, culturally appropriate meals to those in need.

Empowering Communities with Nutritious, Culturally Sensitive Food Support

Grantees Selected for Impactful Initiatives

A distinguished panel of community members, comprising food security experts and representatives from various demographics, meticulously reviewed each proposal. The selection process prioritized projects deeply rooted in community ties, innovative strategies, and culturally grounded solutions to combat food insecurity. Organizations chosen for funding include Common Ground Collective, Fresh Help Maui, Hale Kipa, Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition of Hawai‘i, Hua Momona Foundation, Ka Hale Pōmaika‘i, Maui Grassroots Collective, Nā Hoaloha Interfaith Volunteers, ʻOhana Makamae, Our Kūpuna, Pacific Birth Collective, Pacific Cancer Foundation, and the University of Hawai‘i Foundation – Maui.The total funds awarded amount to ,150,000, a significant investment in ensuring no one in Maui County goes hungry. These grants will enable grantees to implement programs such as community farming initiatives, mobile grocery delivery services, and culturally significant food programs designed to improve health outcomes while preserving traditions.

Addressing Critical Needs Post-Wildfire

In the wake of the devastating wildfires, the importance of food security cannot be overstated. Vulnerable populations, including kūpuna (elders) and keiki (children), have been disproportionately affected. Organizations like Our Kūpuna are expanding their grocery delivery programs to ensure these individuals have access to nutrient-dense foods delivered with aloha. Shannon I‘i, Maui Program Coordinator at Our Kūpuna, emphasized the significance of this support: "Food is more than sustenance—it nourishes the body, mind, and spirit. This grant allows us to keep our kūpuna fed and cared for during challenging times."

Innovative Strategies for Long-Term Resilience

Mā‘ona Food Security Grant recipients are employing innovative strategies to address long-term food security challenges. Community farming programs not only provide fresh produce but also foster a sense of unity and self-sufficiency. Mobile grocery delivery services ensure that even those in remote areas can access nutritious food. Culturally significant food programs aim to preserve traditional practices while promoting healthier lifestyles. Makana Rosete, Director of Communications, Events, and Advocacy at Maui United Way, highlighted the broader impact of this initiative: "Food security is foundational to resilience. Our grantees are stepping up in meaningful ways to ensure no one in our community is left behind. This grant is a cornerstone of our long-term commitment to helping Maui recover and thrive."

Supporting Diverse Populations

The selected grantees collectively serve a wide range of populations, from displaced families to individuals facing barriers to accessing fresh, nutritious food. Programs funded by the Mā‘ona Food Security Grant focus on providing culturally appropriate meals that cater to diverse dietary needs. For instance, initiatives targeting kūpuna emphasize nutrient-dense foods that promote overall well-being. Similarly, programs for keiki prioritize healthy, balanced meals that support growth and development.

Building a Sustainable Future

Looking ahead, the Mā‘ona Food Security Grant aims to build a sustainable future where food security is a reality for all residents of Maui County. By fostering partnerships between local organizations and leveraging innovative solutions, Maui United Way is creating a robust network of support. This initiative ensures that communities remain resilient in the face of adversity, with a particular focus on vulnerable populations. Through collaborative efforts, Maui United Way is paving the way for a healthier, more equitable future for all.