HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0158.063 2024-2026P/5. COU1161
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From: Micki O'Brien
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Sent: Wednesday, June 4, 2025 11:27 AM C_ C=2
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Testimony in Strong Support of Food Security Funding —June 5 Council Ij�eeting
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Aloha Honorable Council Members,
My name is Micki O'Brien, and I am a becoming farmer, Treasurer of the East-"Hawai'i Chapter of Hawai'i
Farmers Union, and a Hawaii Island resident deeply engaged in our island's food systems. I live and
work in Keaukaha, where I see every day how essential programs like Malama Da Farmer, Kokua Harvest,
and Resilience Hub Food Distribution are to our island's well-being.
I am submittingthis testimony in strong support of Council Member.lenn Kagiwada's proposal to add
a "Food Security" line item to the Department of Research and Development's Agricultural Contractual
Services budget, with an initial allocation of $2 million.
This is not just a line item. It's a lifeline.
As a becoming farmer and food system ally, I know firsthand how much effort it takes to grow healthy,
local food —and how heartbreaking it is when good food goes to waste or doesn't reach the people who
need it most. Programs like Malama Da Farmer help farmers thrive, not just survive, by reducing barriers
and redistributing food with dignity. Kokua Harvest turns abundance into action by rescuing produce
that would otherwise be lost. Resilience Hubs anchor communities in preparedness and care, making
sure keiki, kupuna, and working families are nourished in everyday life and in times of crisis.
These efforts embody what food security means for Hawaii Island: feeding our people, supporting our
farmers, reducing waste, and building systems that work for us —not just during disasters, but
every day.
We are facing significant threats from federal and state budget cuts. Now is the time for county
leadership to step up and invest directly in our local food future. A dedicated "Food Security" line item
will help stabilize and expand these crucial programs, ensuring continuity and growth in the years to
come.
Please be bold. Please be visionary. Please fund food security.
Our health, resilience, and sovereignty as an island community depend on it.
Mahalo nui for your service and for standing with our farmers and families.
With respect and aloha,
Mick! O'Brien
Keaukaha, Hilo
Treasurer, East Hawai'i Chapter, Hawai'i Farmers Union Comas. A";� .
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