Waikōloa Grows Kūpuna Food Connection

 At Waikōloa Grows, we believe that caring for our kūpuna is an essential part of building a healthy, resilient, and connected community. Our kūpuna have contributed their knowledge, experience, and service throughout their lives, and they deserve access to nutritious food, dignity, and support as they age. Through programs such as the Kūpuna Food Connection Program and The Farmstand CSA home delivery service, we help ensure that older adults who are homebound, have limited mobility, or face transportation challenges can continue to receive fresh, locally grown foods. By reducing barriers to healthy eating and fostering meaningful community connections, we honor our kūpuna while strengthening the well-being of Waikōloa Village for generations to come. Caring for our kūpuna is more than a program—it is a commitment to mālama one another and uphold the values of compassion, respect, and community.

The Kūpuna Food Connection Program is a community-based initiative of Waikōloa Grows designed to improve food access for older adults in Waikōloa Village who face barriers to obtaining healthy food. Through the program, eligible kūpuna can enroll in The Farmstand Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and receive convenient home delivery of fresh, locally grown produce and other nutritious food items. To ensure resources are directed to those with the greatest need, participation is limited to kūpuna who are homebound, have limited mobility, lack reliable transportation, or have other physical challenges that make regular shopping difficult. The program helps participants maintain access to fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, breads, and value-added local products while supporting their health, independence, and overall well-being. By delivering healthy food directly to their homes, the Kūpuna Food Connection Program reduces transportation barriers, increases food security, and strengthens connections between Waikōloa residents and local farmers, helping kūpuna remain healthy and connected within the community.