Church volunteers on Maui serve nearly 400 meals during Christmas tradition

KIHEI (HawaiiNewsNow) – Eighty-three volunteers gathered at Saint Theresa’s Church in Kihei on Christmas Day to serve hot meals to those in need, continuing a tradition that has fed Maui’s hungry for more than three decades.

The Hale Kau Kau program served nearly 400 people on Christmas, part of a mission that began in 1991 and has provided more than 1.5 million meals over 34 years. The program has operated for more than 12,000 consecutive days, missing only one day due to a tsunami scare earlier this year.

Volunteers choose giving over receiving

John Gorman, a 73-year-old regular volunteer, said the experience helps put life in perspective.

“I think in life, we go through life feeling that maybe we’re not being paid enough, or maybe this, or maybe that, or my car. But there are people with greater needs, and I think it’s recognizing that,” Gorman said.

Gorman’s commitment to giving back stems from his childhood experience. His father died when he was seven years old, and the local community helped his family during Christmas.

“Our needs were there and the local community, especially at Christmas, had a similar type thing where we went and we got presents and, in some cases, that was maybe the only present that we got,” Gorman said.

Community gathering with food and festivities

The Christmas meal included singing, dancing and a visit from Santa Claus for children attending the event.

Valeria Torres, who enjoyed the Christmas meal, said the community aspect drew her to the gathering.

“My favorite part is getting to know everyone, meeting everyone. They’re so friendly and I’m just grateful to be here with everyone,” Torres said.

Shawn Wallen, Hale Kau Kau program director, said the Christmas service reflects the holiday’s spirit.

“We’re just so blessed to be able to be here and just serve those who don’t have anywhere else to go or are struggling with food insecurity, and it’s just a big blessing to be here because Christmas is about giving,” Wallen said.

Wallen thanked Eskimo Candy, the Maui Food Bank and Whole Foods for their contributions.