Maui food bank witnesses surge in demand following wildfires

KAHULUI—It has been over eight months since the wildfires forever changed lives across the community of Maui. At Maui Food Bank (MFB), there has been a notable rise in the demand for food assistance, according to the organization. The numbers are staggering, revealing that demand for food has soared by over 65% since the devastating fires last August.

Monthly food distribution has surged from 250,000 pounds to nearly 800,000 pounds per month. Fresh produce distribution has doubled, from 78,000 to 160,000 pounds per month. This overwhelming growth in the need for services reaffirms how critical MFB’s role is in addressing the community’s hunger crisis.

The “Living Pono Project,” a program supported by MFB that distributes baskets of local produce to over 300 families each week, provided insight into how people are responding to the assistance.

“Being relocated to the other side of the island is kind of a shock for all of us. Being in Lahaina for so many years, this is a challenge for us to start a life all over again. We are very thankful for a supportive community and this program is a big help to us. God bless!” One beneficiary of the food assistance shared, wanting to remain anonymous.

“Love this program. It’s so very helpful and we enjoy the poi, the fresh vegetables and fruits and protein. Such an enormous help financially and great for our health,” added another beneficiary who also wanted to remain unnamed.

The journey to recovery is far from over, according to MFB.

“Confronting hunger comes with its challenges, and it must be faced with determination and compassion,” MFB said in a press release. “MFB stands committed to supporting survivors and others fighting hunger in the community every step of the way. None of this would be possible without the dedicated efforts and unwavering support of partner agencies and the incredible generosity of the community, near and far.”

Established in 1994, Maui Food Bank is Maui County’s primary safety net for hunger relief. Working with more than 170 distribution partners and programs, the Food Bank distributes safe and nutritious food to individuals, families, children and youth, low-income workers, seniors on fixed incomes, those experiencing homelessness, and anyone who is at risk of going hungry. For more information, visit MauiFoodBank.org.