Food Distribution for Seniors

Na Hoaloha News Release

Na Hoaloha received more than $8,000 worth of pantry food donations from Whole Foods Market Feed 4 More Campaign to help feed Maui County’s homebound seniors. The food was distributed by Na Hoaloha (meaning “loving friends”), a volunteer based nonprofit serving Maui County homebound seniors for 20 years.

On Molokai, Mary Kekalia headed up the volunteer team to distribute 150 bags of food to seniors who can use a little extra help.

During the holidays, Whole Foods Market customers were invited to make a donation at any register Nov 14-24. Donations helped to purchase non-perishable foods such as spaghetti, marinara sauce, canned beans and soup.

This was the third-year Na Hoaloha has partnered with Whole Foods to get food into the homes of seniors who may be on a fixed income and limited opportunities to get to the store. Last year Na Hoaloha received enough food to feed hundreds of seniors. Na Hoaloha volunteers and staff worked on Maui, Molokai and Lanai to bag food and get it to people in need. Tri Isle Trucking and Young Bros. Shipping donated their services to the project.

“It is truly a love of community and kupuna from all involved to make this happen,” said Candice Carter, Executive Director for Na Hoaloha.

This year the challenge is even greater, as our client base has increased by 60 percent with the vast majority of elders below poverty. Na Hoaloha is now serving 646 elders with the help of 237 volunteers.

Na Hoaloha continues to examine crucial issues facing Maui County seniors and develops programs to enhance their lives. In 2015 Na Hoaloha established a Falls Prevention Program and in 2016 a Respite Caregiver Program. Working with volunteers enables Na Hoaloha to provide essential services in a cost-effective way. This year the organization will focus on bringing awareness of the health risks seniors are facing due to social isolation and loneliness.

If you would like to learn more about Na Hoaloha visit our webpage at nahoaloha.org. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please call our office at 249-2545 or email at info@nahoaloha.org