Christ Memorial Episcopal Church has received approval to open a food pantry in Kilauea, starting today. “We receive anxious requests for food on a regular basis,” said Rev. Robin Taylor. “We believe it is part of our mission to create
Christ Memorial Episcopal Church has received approval to open a food pantry in Kilauea, starting today.
“We receive anxious requests for food on a regular basis,” said Rev. Robin Taylor. “We believe it is part of our mission to create a food pantry so our neighbors will not go hungry. Thanks to the help of Rotary, we are ready to go.”
With many people working low-wage jobs and facing some of the highest food costs in the country, the need for food support is critical. Kilauea Elementary School reports that 52 percent of its students are on the free and reduced lunch program.
The Rotary Club of Hanalei Bay is partnering with CMEC during the first two years of set-up and operation to ensure the food pantry rests on a solid financial footing.
“Families are confronting difficult choices when it comes to their household food budgets, and seniors on fixed incomes are particularly vulnerable,” said Marion Paul, Rotary public relations chair. “The Rotary is honored to partner with Christ Memorial Episcopal Church to help people put food on the table.”
There are two food pantries open on the North Shore. Opening another in Kilauea that distributes on Saturday afternoon will add essential free food support to families as they prepare for their school and work week. CMEC and Rotary are coordinating with the other North Shore food pantries so as not to duplicate efforts or waste scarce resources, they said.
During the first few months, the food pantry will operate out of a temporary storage space which is too small to meet the expected demand. CMEC is taking donations to help buy food for the pantry, and still needs $12,500 to get permits and build a larger, permanent facility.
The Christ Memorial Episcopal Church Food Pantry will be open from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Saturday or until food runs out, in their Parish House. The Parish Hall is across from the church, 2518 Kolo Road.
The food pantry is open to those who meet U.S. Department of Agriculture income requirements or emergencies. Everyone is welcome at the pantry regardless of religious affiliation.
To donate, contact Marion Paul, 320-3776.
