Editor’s note: Each Wednesday, West Hawaii Today is publishing a story about individuals, groups or organizations that have helped make life better for others in our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 501(c)(3) nonprofit Hawaii Realtors Charitable Foundation recently announced the collection of $19,120 in monetary donations and 3,500 pounds of nonperishable food items during its second-annual #OneCanIfCan food drive in July and August.
During those two months, dozens of Realtors, including members of the West Hawaii Association of Realtors, and partner companies across the state hosted canned-food donation points, and monetary donations were collected online under the #OneCanIfCan campaign. The canned food donations benefit their respective island food banks, including The Food Basket, Hawaii Island’s lone food bank. Monetary donations will also be distributed to each food bank.
“We are so grateful the support of everyone who donated during our second-annual food drive to help feed Hawaii’s families,” said Moana Andersen, president of the foundation. “One in six Hawaii residents struggles with hunger, and the COVID-19 pandemic has put additional strain on our food banks.”
The Hawaii Realtors Charitable Foundation, which launched in 2020 with a $50,000 donation to food banks throughout Hawaii, serves local communities by supporting charitable organizations and their efforts to assist those in need. The foundation is established by the statewide professional trade organization Hawaii Realtors. Hawaii Realtors is a professional trade organization founded in 1967 with more than 10,000 members involved in all aspects related to the sale, purchase, or exchange of real estate in Hawaii.
Know a Hometown Hero who should be highlighted next Wednesday? It can be anybody, from a youngster doing good for the community, to a professional helping with the COVID-19 pandemic, or even a kupuna! Please send your nominations to cjensen@westhawaiitoday.com with the subject: Hometown Heroes Nomination. Please include the hero’s name, contact information and what makes them a hero.