HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The State of Hawaii and Hawaii Foodbank launched their 27th Annual State Employees’ Food and Fund Drive on Wednesday.
The drive will run from March 4 through May 8. Since 1999, state workers have raised food and funds to support Hawaii Foodbank and its statewide affiliates.
Lt. Governor Sylvia Luke is chairing the campaign for the fourth year in a row.
“I am honored to chair the 27th Annual State Employees’ Food and Fund Drive and humbled to join fellow state employees to support Hawaiʻi Foodbank,” Luke said. “I continue to admire the spirit, dedication and generosity of our state employees’ commitment to bettering our community.”
This year’s campaign aims to raise the equivalent of 400,000 meals to help families across the islands access nutritious food.
The push comes as the 2024–2025 Food Insecurity Report from the Hawaii Foodbank Hui highlights the scale of hunger in Hawaii, finding that nearly 1 in 3 households statewide struggles with food insecurity.
“Food insecurity remains a serious challenge for many households across Hawaii,” said Amy Miller, president and CEO of Hawaii Foodbank. “When our community comes together to host food and fund drives and raise awareness, we help break down the stigma and remind people that Hawaii Foodbank is here for everyone.”
The report also found more than half of young adults ages 18 to 29 experience food insecurity, including 58% of those currently enrolled in higher education.
Funds raised through the drive will support Hawaii Foodbank’s daily operations and programs, including School and Summer Food Programs.
This year, state employees are also being given a new way to help. Luke announced a voluntary payroll deduction option that will allow workers to support Hawaii Foodbank through year-round charitable giving.
Donations are being collected at the State Capitol, Satellite City Halls and Honolulu Fire Department stations. You can also donate online at HawaiiFoodbank.org.
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