WOW this is really quite humbling. I am so thankful Duke Aiona and his staff has shared with us this event for so many years. Always down to earth, positive and real.
It really is true, because of him and his staff, more people in need will have a better chance at getting those needs met due to his advocacy in the change of the law. He and Suzanne Chun both pushed hard for this. Both quality people.
For me to read this made me feel honored and humbled.
Anyway just had to share it with u all. :)
Big Hugs and Thank u all again for making this happen!
PS... If any of u were not able to see the pic events, please let me know and I will try another way to send them.
MAHALO :)
Mele Kalikimaka and Hau oli la hau nau
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to u all!!
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Here's what was posted on Lt. Governor Aiona's e-mail:
Lt. Governor Helps Lead
Fight Against Hunger
Lt. Governor Aiona participated in an annual outreach effort last Saturday organized by Kau Kau Wagon, a community service organization, to provide turkey dinners and support for those in need at Gateway Park in downtown Honolulu.
"The lines are getting longer for people having problems putting food on the table," said Lt. Governor Aiona, who was a volunteer server of the free meals. "We have an obligation to care for those around us with the greatest needs."
The event, called "Thanksgiving of Hope," was part of Kau Kau Wagon's efforts to reduce hunger in the state.
"This all started with one person's vision of helping people," Lt. Governor Aiona said in reference to Sharon Black, who started Kau Kau Wagon.
To help facilitate more opportunities to feed the hungry, Lt. Governor Aiona led an effort earlier this year to eliminate a barrier to preparing meals for the homeless.
Under the new rules enacted by the Lingle-Aiona Administration, organizations and individuals that prepare free meals for the homeless are exempt from certain Department of Health permit requirements.
Exemptions apply to kitchens that are used to provide food for homeless individuals at no cost.
"The emergency rule was a significant step to reduce hunger in Hawai`i because it gives nonprofit organizations and other residents the ability to prepare meals for those facing difficult times," Lt. Governor Aiona said.
Before the rule change, groups had to prepare meals in a Department of Health permitted kitchen. "As a result, we saw a severe shortage in the number of organizations willing to provide meals to the homeless," Lt. Governor Aiona said. "Now, there should be no excuses for not feeding the hungry."