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    HomePartnership Creates Thriving Summer Meals Program for Hawaii Children
The Hoʻōla Farms team sets up for distribution at Puna Hongwanji.

The Hoʻōla Farms team sets up for distribution at Puna Hongwanji.As part of a collaborative effort to enhance USDA's summer nutrition programs, Vibrant Hawaii was a key partner in serving thousands of children in rural Hawaii during the summer of 2023. Hoʻōla Farms is one of many operators to benefit from the new USDA-supported program that makes it easier for families to access summer meals.Hoʻōla Farms and other approved program operators used grab-and-go and delivery meal service, a new option designed to reach children who do not have access to summer programs where children may gather for meals.During summer 2023, Vibrant Hawaii assisted the Hawaii Department of Education with providing meals in rural areas not served by a group meal site. During a six-week period, approximately 4,000 children were fed breakfast and lunch seven days a week in rural areas of the state.The YMCA Hilo team prepare for their weekly summer food distribution.

The YMCA Hilo team prepare for their weekly summer food distribution.Sharlene Wong, a Hawaii Department of Education official, is quick to tout the success of the program and shares recommendations and lessons learned:Communicate early and often with potential and returning program operators.Contact USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) regional office with questions or concerns.Be mindful of the time and capacity of sponsors so they can provide meaningful technical support enabling them to operate efficiently.Always be available to provide guidance and support to sponsors.“Without question, it is impressive that 4,000 children were fed nutritious meals throughout the summer,” added Janice Ikeda, executive director of Vibrant Hawaii. “However, it’s comments from the community that give me joy!”University of Hawaii at Hilo students assist with packing meal kits for children.

University of Hawaii at Hilo students assist with packing meal kits for children.Families of eligible children received these meals while being greeted with “Aloha,” resulting in a positive experience all around. Hilo Products Volunteer Brandon Bartolome said it best when he added, “This program is a shining example of the true meaning of Aloha."Page updated: January 09, 2024 Return to top

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