Hunger Blog

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.

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.

For years, Ferdinand made the drive from Waipahu to Kapolei, working as a housekeeper in the hospitality industry. But after tourism shut down in response to COVID-19, Ferdinand was furloughed. The other members of his household — all hotel workers — were also out of work.

COVID-19 has brought on many changes to how we all operate daily. The pandemic has created anxiety, doubt and fear of the unknown. But at Hawaii Foodbank, the door remains open — and our community's aloha shines through.