Our food pantry began distributions out of a residence in 1997 before the Church even had a building.  Over the years, the pantry has grown to include management of satellite distributions in Anahola, Kapaa and Wailua, plus a mobile pantry that conducts distributions of food and emergency survival supplies at homeless encampments and at-risk housing all over the island. These pantries now distribute, free of charge, over 4 tons of food a week and serve a weekly average of over 500 participants, supporting over 1200 family members. Kauai medical clinics alternate supplying medical advice and treatment at each of our fixed locations during pantry hours.

Ho`okipa is a Hawaiian word meaning hospitality with aloha, which is hospitality that transcends the norm in serving others.  In accord with this concept, all distributions are operating or migrating toward the "client choice" distribution model, where participants choose what they want instead of being handed a prepackaged box of food chosen for them according to whatever is available in various government programs.  Giving someone a choice, shows respect and reduces waste but requires more money to purchase products not available at a discount.

The products we give away are donated by the Hawaii Foodbank, the Kauai Independent Food Bank, Foodland, the Kilauea Market, Hanalei Market and Hanalei Poi or are purchased without subsidization from Costco, Walmart, the Kilauea Community Agricultural Center and various Kauai grocers, food hubs, farmers and distributors.  All donations are applied toward the purchase, transportation, display and distribution of products given away and the supporting supplies and infrastructure.  The Ho`okipa Kauai Food Pantry is 100% volunteer, including management.  The program’s success is attributable to the generosity of its donors and the loyalty of its volunteers.  Our food pantry manager was recognized by the Hawaii Legislature in 2022 as Kauai’s Community Hero in recognition of our work.

Anyone wanting to join this Ohana is welcome.  We need help at the Church of the Pacific campus from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. unpacking and arranging items to be given away, then from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. distributing them and breaking down the displays.  Monetary donations are always needed.

We should add pics of operations, the van and the Beach Outreach truck

For more information please visit hookipakauai.org