The Kohala Center recently launched the Full Calabash Fund, a statewide program to aid local families, farmers, and food producers most significantly affected in Hawaii by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Created with assistance from the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, the Calabash Fund will provide grants for local organizations that provide food to community members in need, such as farmers and ranchers. The Kohala Center administrates the funding from the Calabash Fund, and is an independent community organization located on Hawaii Island.
Grants from the fund will be awarded to non-profit organizations as well as meal preparation services in Hawaii. The awardees will need to have demonstrated a history of dedication and connection to their communities, and serving those in their community that are the most vulnerable to food insecurity.
The Kohala Center is helping families, farmers, and those suffering from shortage of food due to the pandemic with the launch of its new statewide program
| Photo Credit: https://kohalacenter.org/
At least 50% of the grant award will be required to purchase food and agricultural products from farmers, producers, and ranchers. A portion of the funding may be used for organization operation costs. Organizations interested in applying can find more information as well as the application online.
Deadline to apply for the Full Calabash Fund is on Dec. 8 at 5:00pm HST.
The Kohala Center President and CEO, Cheryl Ku’uhane Lupenui, said “The Full Calabash Fund reminds us of the honor that comes from the generous exchanges of gifts, including time, energy, and food.”
“The ways we feed our future are still deeply rooted as we craft elegant solutions that strengthen food security and improve community access to healthy and nutritious food," said Lupenui.
The Kohala Center will also work with funding awardees to locate and utilize resources to strengthen their abilities to nourish and provide for their communities.
Interested parties may also donate to the Full Calabash Fund. The deadline for donations to the Calabash fund is Dec. 31, and information for donations can be found on the Kohala Center website.