Hawaii Senators Lend Helping Hand to Hawaii Foodbank

Senate President Shan Tsutsui presents the Hawaii State Senate’s donation to Linda Takayama, Hawaii Foodbank Chairperson. Photo Courtesy Hawai'i State Senate Communications

By Wendy Osher

The Hawaii State Senate this week presented a $9,400 check to the Hawai’i Foodbank to help Hawai’i residents in need.

The Senate raised the money through a drive, which began in mid-February, and wrapped up at the end of April.

A couple of unique fundraisers were held, including Senator Mike Gabbard’s “Capitol Idol” and Senator Clayton Hee’s “Dunk-a-Senator” events.

Other offices held bake sales, sold bento, waffle sundaes, eggs and gandule rice breakfast, etc.

“It’s important to us that we do our part to help our residents who are going through a tough time, and through our donation, it brings us comfort that a handful of people will not go hungry,” said Senate President Shan Tsutsui in a statement.

Senator Gabbard’s office raised the highest individual total of $2,113.60.  A total of 15 offices participated in the fundraiser this year.