HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-02-02 Letter to Mike Gabbard re SB 2398 - relating to Creating a Farmers Market/SNAP Matching ProgramHarry Kim
County
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Wil Okabe
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Barbara J. Kossow
Deputy A lanagIng Director
25 Aupuni Street, Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720 • (808) 961-8211 • Fax (808) 961-6553
KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalale Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
(808) 323-4444 • Fax (808) 323-4440
February 2, 2018
Senator Mike Gabbard, Chair
Committee on Agriculture and Environment
Hawaii State Capitol, Room 224
Honolulu, HI 96813
Dear Chair Gab
ard and Comrnittee Members:
Re: SB 2398 Relating to Creating a Farmers Market/SNAP Matching
Program
Hearing Date: 02/05/18 — 1:15 pm; Conference oom 224
Thank you for this op
ortunity to support SB 2398.
It is my understanding that 2398 proposes to build on a Big Island pilot
program that was launched by our local Food Basket 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.
I think this is a program that should be encouraged, and I hope you will act
favorably on SB 2398.
Respectfully submitted,
Harry Kim
Mayor, County of Hawaii
County of Ilawal'i is an Equa Opporiuniiy Provider and Frnployer.