HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0158.048 2024-2026P/5. C ulci[
COUNTY CLERK 158
COUNTY O1= HAt�AH C�JMM•
TO: Hawai'i County Council Members
FROM: Donna Johnson-Elayyan ���� `�� �' 3
RE: Testimony Support for "Food Security' Budget Line Item
Aloha, Council Members,
My name is Donna Johnson-Elayyan, and I am a dedicated co mm unity.,member
who has both worked for the benefit of our local food system and personally
relied on The Food Basket's Kokua Harvest Program —a program I consider vital to
our island's food security network.
strongly support adding a 'Food Security' line item to the Department of
Research and Development's Agricultural Contractual Services budget, with an
initial allocation of $2 million.
I have personally participated in Kokua Harvest and Resiliency Hub Distribution
programs, which have directly benefited my community members. I have also
taken workshops with Malama Da Farmer —all stellar programs!
These programs serve as a crucial gateway to farming and food distribution. They
are the backbone of local food access on our island, ensuring that kupuna, keiki,
and working families receive nourishment while also strengthening our farmers,
reducing food waste, and building 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.
I urge you to prioritize local food security in this year's budget. Our island's well-
being depends on it.
Mahalo for your time, consideration, and all that you do for our island home and
its people.
Sincerely,
Donna Johnson-Elayyan Rural South Hilo,
District 1 Community Advocate & Beginning Farmer
Comm. R.
�: Ref. T
Ref. Wte e 5 2fl