2018-02-21 Letter to Donovan M. Dela Cruz and Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran re SB 2398, SD 1 Relating to Creating a SNAP Matching Program

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Harry Kim ttayor Wil Okabe Afonaging Director Barbara J. Kossow emitlavaging Director ffirr of firaulr 25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 c Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553 KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740 (808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440 Senator Donovan 1 Dela Cruz, Chair Committee on Ways and Means Hawaii State Capitol, Room 211 Honolulu, HI 96813 ir February 21 2018 Senator Gilbert 5. C Keith-Agaran, Vice -Chair Committee on Ways and Means Hawaii State Capitol, Room 211 Honolulu, HI 96813 Dear Chair Dela Cruz, Vice -Chair Ke th-Agaran and Committee Members: Re: SB 2398, SD, 1 Relating to Creating a SNAP Matching Prog ram Hearing Date: — 11:00 am; Conference Room 211 Thank you for this opportunity to support SB 2398, Sal it is my understanding that S: 2398 proposed to build on a Big Island pilot program that was launched by our local Food asket and food retailer KTA. By providing funds that can only be used to purchase locally -grown produce, food stamp recipients are incentivized to buy healthy fruits and vegetables; local farmers gain new customers and make more money; and more food dollars stay in the local economy. SB 2398, SD 1 still limits purchases to fresh fruit and vegetables, but somewhat dilutes the "local" aspect of tie program by allowing the purchase at institutions that may be acquiring their produce from overseas suppliers. lam not sure that is a positive amendment, but at least the food stamp users would still be seeing nutritional benefits. I defer to others whether SB 2398 or SB 2398, SI 1 is a better approach, but in either case !think this is a program that should be encouraged, and! hope you will act favorably on this measure. Harry Kim ayor, County of Hawail C' )iimy of 1 lawai`i is an Equal OpportImity Provider and Employer.