Volunteers at Lanakila Pacific's Meals on Wheels program delivered over 600 Christmas meals to homebound seniors and individuals with disabilities across Oʻahu last Thursday, KHON2 reported. Nearly 300 volunteers served meals with traditional holiday fare.
Lanakila Pacific’s Meals on Wheels program provides more than nutrition—it fosters community connections. "What a blessing because now I don’t have to think about what to eat," 85-year-old Alleene Ishikawa told KHON2, noting the meals introduce new foods and require "no plates to wash." Volunteers also offer companionship during a season that can amplify feelings of isolation.
Bank of Hawaiʻi employees volunteered to support the community. "It's important to show the community that we’re here and supporting them," Marissa Pati, a senior auditor, told KHON2. Other volunteers, some dressed as Santa's elves, reinforced a sense of togetherness and shared responsibility for the 'ohana.
Lanakila Meals on Wheels serves all communities across Oʻahu and is the island’s largest and only island-wide provider, addressing the needs of more than 40,000 seniors who struggle to feed themselves, KHON2 reported. Reid Yasunaga, the director of food operations, told Hawaii News Now, "To be that big a focal point in someone’s life and making that difference, making them feel loved and appreciated, it goes a long way."
Lanakila Pacific continually calls for volunteers to help with meal delivery and kitchen operations. Yasunaga encouraged anyone willing to donate their time to support kupuna and community members in need.
