Upcountry Strong has kicked off a fundraising push to keep its Upcountry Pantry — the Makawao storefront locals call “Da Store” — running into 2026, saying it needs about $100,000 to cover food, rent and utilities. Open since August 2024, the pantry now serves hundreds weekly and leans hard on fresh, locally sourced proteins and produce alongside staples. Organizers say the shop has become a lifeline for kupuna, working families and neighbors housing wildfire survivors.
“From kupuna and keiki to families housing fire survivors, the need in our community has only grown,” Claudia Garcia, president of Upcountry Strong, told Maui Now. Current funding runs only through December 31, and Garcia said another $100,000 would carry operations into next year. The group estimates monthly costs at roughly $8,000–$10,000 and says it is registering around 50 new clients each month as demand rises, figures shared with the outlet. Volunteers and board members say the campaign is about preserving a year-round, dignified distribution point for Upcountry residents.
What Da Store Provides
Upcountry Strong lists the Makawao storefront and Saturday public hours; the pantry also accepts 2-1-1 referrals for emergency pickups by appointment. The nonprofit prioritizes balanced meals and partners with local ranchers and farmers to stock fresh produce, proteins and groceries — not just canned goods. Those local ties, organizers say, help ensure families get nutritious, culturally familiar food across Upcountry Maui.
Demand Is Growing Islandwide
Maui’s broader food network is straining. The island’s primary food bank moved nearly 538,000 pounds of food in October and warned demand could spike 35% heading into the holidays — pressure that trickles down to smaller providers, Maui News reported. Mobile markets and partners are seeing longer lines and more first-time families. All of which underscores why a brick-and-mortar pantry in Makawao matters for residents dealing with transportation, costs or unstable housing.
How To Help
Upcountry Strong is urging donations on Giving Tuesday (December 2), when reporting indicates a GlobalGiving match will double gifts, and it welcomes year-round support through its online page. Mail-in contributions are accepted at the nonprofit’s listed address, and in-kind donations of fresh produce or frozen proteins from local suppliers are especially helpful. For online gifts and contact details, see Upcountry Strong; the campaign and match were described in reporting by Maui Now.
