Aloha In Action: Communities Across Hawaiʻi Island Mobilize to Support 6,000 Families During Federal Shutdown

When the federal shutdown brought sudden uncertainty to families across Hawaiʻi Island—communities didn’t wait - they mobilized, stepped in for one another, and got to work.

Over a three-week period, more than 70 Hawaiʻi Island donors contributed over $700,000 to support Aloha In Action. Nearly 500 volunteers gave over 2,000 hours across 14 community-led Points of Distribution, providing 6,000 families with food, gas cards, grocery cards, and essential resources.

“Words can’t describe how thankful we are for you folks. I had a moment last night where I sat down and cried after opening our refrigerator and seeing it so empty. My heart broke when my son asked for something to eat, and I didn’t have anything to give him. I had no idea how we were gonna make it through the week. The sigh of relief I felt today when we picked up our boxes is indescribable.”

This message, shared by one ʻohana, echoes what hundreds of families expressed —relief, stability, and the feeling of being seen by their community. To read messages from families who received support, click here.

To every volunteer, donor, grower, and partner who helped keep aloha alive, mahalo nui. Your care made all the difference.

To learn more about our collect impact, visit vibranthawaii.org/alohainaction.