Kristin Frost Albrecht,  Hawaii Island Food Basket Executive Director, says 4 local foundations have each given the Food Basket $100,000 to support the current need.  Albrecht says the donations are very welcome, given the organization is now spending in one month what they would normally spend in half a year.  In April they spent $300,000 purchasing food at wholesale prices from local vendors.

When the pandemic shutdowns were first announced, the Hawaii Community Foundation donated $105,000, the Jeannette and Harry Weinberg gave $100,000, an anonymous donor gave another $100,000, and the Thirty Meter Telescope International Foundation gave $100,000.

Today, the Food Basket has an ‘Ohana Food Drop at Papa’aloa Community Center Gym from 10 a.m. until noon, and at Honoka’a Sports Complex from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.

Food Basket Executive Director Kristin Frost Albrecht says the demand has grown since the COVID-19 crisis has started, and that there is no shame in accepting food.  Everybody who needs food should come and stay in their vehicle.  Hawaii County Police, Sheriffs, and National Guard will help direct traffic and put food directly into the vehicle, so make sure there is enough room in your trunk or back seat for a basket of food plus some fresh produce and  refrigerated food.    Ms. Albrecht also said it’s good to bring a cooler in which to place the refrigerated food.

There are two food drops next week:  Ka’u District Gym on Tuesday, May 26 from 10 a.m. until noon, and Cooper Center in Volcano on Wednesday, May 27 from 10 a.m. until noon–or until the food supply is depleted.

On Thursday, May 21, there was an ‘Ohana Food Drop at Old Kona Airport Gym.  Frost Albrecht estimated they’d be helping 2,000 people with the food giveaway.  Photos are from the Kona event.

To hear a short interview recorded on Wednesday, May 20 with Kristin Frost Albrecht about what the Hawaii Island Food Basket, click here.

For more about the Hawaii Island Food Basket or to donate online, go to hawaiifoodbasket.org