Bite of Lahaina fundraising event aims to raise $15,000 for West Maui projects

The Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunset recently hosted an inaugural “Bite of Lahaina” fundraising event at the rooftop venue of the Maui Kuʻia Estate Chocolate factory. Seven chefs and food establishments provided samples while guests enjoyed music by Wilmont Kahaialiʻi and Dayan Kai.

Attendees voted for their favorite bite, with Smash Maui Food truck winning the top prize. DeeJay Duque, son of owners Darlene and Jason Duque, crafted the winning “Ahi Sushi Nigiri,” earning a $250 cash prize and a certificate.

Coupled with this event is the online silent auction which aims to raise $15,000 for West Maui projects like scholarships, beach rescue tubes, environmental initiatives in Lahaina, and youth programs that provide classroom donations, school supplies, and financial literacy education. The club has also partnered with the Rotary District 5000 Foundation to support over 100 recovery projects following the 2023 Lahaina wildfire.

Bidding in the silent auction ends at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12. Bids can be placed online at: https://bit.ly/lahainaauction.