Out of the many nonprofit organizations on Hawaii Island, none is better recognized with the limited employed personnel that make up The Food Basket in Kona. I had the privilege of volunteering for a total of eight hours in a two-day period, and I was met by an inspired group of people.
I first met with David Kaalilio (manager) of whom were so warm and welcoming my first day there. He kindly explained my role and how the operation functions on a daily basis. He has so many wealth of experience and truly takes the time to work with the other hard working volunteers. I then met Duane Pajimola who too has the kind personality and passion in what he does. Finally I met Marshall Akamu who is the director of the Kona warehouse. I could tell that he was the man in charge because of his strong confident demeanor. There were also Todd/Duane, the truck drivers who are vital to the operation in ensuring all deliveries or donated pickups are met from North Kona to South Point. As stated on many occasions by these loyal hard working individuals “This would not be possible without the volunteers and the many contributing merchants in the community” like Costco, KTA, Safeway and Foodland stores. I would also like to include the many people in the hotel hospitality industry, organizations and individuals who donate monetarily and with goods. These volunteers are dedicated on a weekly basis to give their personal time from 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Wednesday each week. Each individual demonstrate selflessness in everything they do and I would like to mention each one. Steve and Jeff thank you for making me feel at home. Miles, thank you for your hard work and providing all the large boxes necessary to complete the work. Lou and Aileen, big mahalo for your effortless work. Finally, Barbara for sharing with me your past career successes that allowed you and your husband to “pay it forward” now that you’re both retired, God bless.
Starting at 8 a.m., the volunteers made quick work of sorting, organizing, prepping and packing items that are donated. One of the tasks is to sort and read each product for expiration dates. If it is expired, it is put in a pile to feed animals (pigs) and those that are not are boxed based on the product. “Nothing is gone to waste.” Stopping only for a quick break for water then continue finishing the task ahead.
I witnessed other food distribution organizations like Catholic Charities, Kupuna Pantry, Hoolaha Ka hua, DA BOX and others arrive at The Food Basket to collect items such as rice in a 25-pound bag then break it down to 5-pound bags to give to families in need. I also learned that the federal government provides large sum of pallets of canned good items, flour, rice, etc., all of which must be accounted for in a detailed report. Amazing Work David and Staff….
Lastly I have seen firsthand how visitors coming to Hawaii take the time to stop by and volunteer their time because that is what they do back home whether volunteering, donating or monetarily giving to the Food Basket.
I commend you all for your dedication and commitment to this organization in feeding the hunger in our community “we call home.” A big mahalo for the experience and knowledge learned.
Wesley Taketa is a resident of Kona and recently completed a Community Service Learning volunteering with The Food Basket in Kona. I volunteered with the Hawaii Food Basket.