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What We Do

Kūpuna Hunger

Taking care of our kūpuna — who have done so much throughout their lives to take care of us — is a major priority for Hawaiʻi Foodbank.
Kūpuna are vital pillars of our communities — bringing wisdom, experience and essential support to the movement to end hunger. Yet, many seniors face barriers to accessing the food they need to nourish healthy and dignified lives. These problems can be related to their health, finances, and where they live.
Alyson holding kalo in her garden.

Causes of Senior Hunger

Hunger is a serious problem in Hawaiʻi, and it affects more kūpuna than you may think. There are may reasons why seniors are at higher risk for hunger, including:

Health Conditions

Seniors are more likely to have chronic health conditions that make cooking and grocery shopping difficult.

Transportation Problems

Many seniors don’t have access to transportation, making it more difficult to get to grocery stores or food pantries.

Fixed Income

Seniors often have limited income, making it difficult to afford food and other expenses like rent and medicine.

Social Isolation

Seniors who live alone may not have family or caregivers who can help them with grocery shopping and cooking.

How Hawaiʻi Foodbank Helps

Hawaiʻi Foodbank and its network of hunger relief partners help kūpuna get the food they need to live a healthy, active life.

SENIOR FOOD PROGRAMS

We provide food to kūpuna through federal food programs like the Senior Food Box Program and the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program.

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KŪPUNA FRESH

Kūpuna Fresh provides more fresh fruits and vegetables to seniors in need of food assistance — with a focus on providing produce that is culturally meaningful and easy to prepare.

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SNAP APPLICATION ASSISTANCE

We make it easier for older adults to understand and apply for SNAP benefits with the help of local SNAP counselors — helping more seniors afford groceries.

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QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR KŪPUNA PROGRAMS?

For more information on our Kūpuna Programs, contact Jennifer Schantz, Director of Kūpuna Programs, at jennifer@hawaiifoodbank.org or 808-954-7868.

*Note: The Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is designed to eligible kūpuna with access to locally-grown fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs.