Posted on: Friday, October 12, 2001

Editorial
Without all our help, some will go hungry

Americans are known for their generosity, and at no time has it been more apparent than during this crisis facing our nation in the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York and Washington.

Across the country, we have opened our wallets and our hearts to those in need in those two great cities.

But this tragedy stretches far beyond the shores of the Hudson and Potomac rivers. The economic crisis that is a direct result of these terrorist attacks has hit Hawai'i hard, and it is the most vulnerable in our community who are feeling it first.

The Hawaii Foodbank, which supplies food to those who would otherwise go without, has seen demand skyrocket. Requests for food are up 50 percent from just July, said Hawaii Foodbank President Dick Grimm.

When you share a meal with your family tonight, even with whatever difficulties you face, remember there are thousands living nearby who will go to bed hungry if help is not available.

There are several ways all of us can share with those in need.

If you are so inclined, organize a food drive at your workplace, in your neighborhood, your community organizations or church. The Foodbank can help you get going. Contact Polly Kauahi at the Foodbank. The telephone number is 836-3600, ext. 226.

Take part in an on-going food drive. If you are going to the University of Hawai'i football game tomorrow, take a can of food or bag of rice with you. The Foodbank will be collecting outside the gates. Food may also be dropped off at any auto dealer.

If your church, temple or mosque has a food pantry, drop off goods there.

Money won't be turned away, but Grimm says this is one time they would rather have food items than money. Rice is particularly needed, as well as protein-rich canned food.

So the next time you go to the grocery store, add an item — or more — for the Foodbank. Like never before, it is time for all of us to share with each other.