Hunger Blog

Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This year, it's more important than ever that we, as an organization, stand side-by-side with each other and the families we serve – remembering the guiding principles of the late civil rights leader who stood for equality, peace and unity within our communities.

This year, it's a holiday season like no other. COVID-19 is forcing many people to rethink their holiday traditions. As most households are struggling to determine what a safe family gathering will look this year, thousands more are grappling with the realities of hunger for first time in their lives.

I had the privilege of volunteering at one of Hawaii Foodbank's Pop-up Food Distributions. I wanted to do my part to give back to my community during this difficult time and was prepared for a long day of physical labor. What I wasn’t prepared for was what my community would give back to me.

Professional softball player Kamalani Dung has experienced many highs and lows in her life, and she’s grateful for each and every one of them. For the 23-year-old right-hander from Wai‘anae, Hawaii Foodbank’s mission is personal, and she’s ready to pitch in for Hawaii's hungry communities.

This time of year, we remember to cherish the traditions that fundamentally shape who we are, and we’re reminded to look back at the past with a grateful heart — even when it is difficult to do so. As we think about fall and traditions here at Hawaii Foodbank, we can’t help but think of ho‘okipa.

As a member of Feeding America, we are recognizing the unwavering contributions of food banks all across the country. This year, the role of food banks in our communities is especially important as COVID-19 continues to threaten the lives and livelihoods of people throughout the world.