A Village Unites: Event benefits family of Kaeden and Dexen Matsuyama

“It was all about the community coming together” was the common sentiment from those attending the Kuikahi Kaiaulu (A Village Unites) A Taste of Kona Food Festival benefit for the family of Kaeden and Dexen Matsuyama, the two boys that died in a Jan. 29 Holualoa Fire.

The sold out event treated ticket holders to the creations of nine area chefs who donated their time and ingredients as well as music by some of the best the Island has to offer. A Keiki Corner featured Water Slides, face painting, nails and cotton candy and animal balloons.

The event was the brainchild of 6 year old Allan Jose Jr, whose best friend Kaeden perished in the fire. He felt an overwhelming need to help in some way. His father, Allan Jose along with a core group of friends organized the event held Sunday at the Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay. “The outpouring of generosity from the community was overwhelming” stated Jose. “Donations continued to come in right up to the start of the event” he added.