HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0158.044 2024-2026From: Rita Holden
Sent: Wednesday, June 4, 2025 2:56 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Support for Food Security Budget Line Item
Council Members,
My name is Rita Holden, and I am a community member related to The Food Basket's
Kokua Harvest Program, which is part of our island's vital food security network.
I am writing in strong support of adding a "Food Security" line item to the Department of
Research and Development's Agricultural Contractural Services budget, with an initial
allocation of $2 million.
Programs like Malama Da Farmer, Resilience Hub Food Distribution, and Kokua Harvest
are the backbone of local food access on our island. They not only feed our Kapuna,
keiki, and working families, they strengthen our farmers, reduce waste, and build
community resilience.
With anticipated Federal and State funding cuts, we cannot afford to let these programs
falter. A dedicated county funding stream will. help us continue to grow, harvest, and
share local food right here at home.
Please prioritize food security in this year's budget. Our island's well-being depends on it.
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Mahalo for your time and service to our island.
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Kind regards, .�
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Rita Elizabeth Holden
Residence: 46-3987 Kapuna, Road, Honoka'a, Hawaii 96727
Mail: PO Box 1249, Honoka'a, Hawaii 96727
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