By Erica Garza

Whole Foods Market has awarded grants to several Hawaii schools for the implementation of salad bars.

Whole Foods Market recently awarded grants to several Hawaii schools for the implementation of salad bars. The health initiative, named the Salad Bar Project, is focused on providing local students with more access to fresh fruits and vegetables during school meals.

The seven schools awarded the grant include Halau Ku Mana and Waikiki School on O’ahu, Kanuikapono Public Charter School and Kapa’a High School on Kaua’i as well as Maui Haleakala Waldorf School, Hana School and Kihei Charter School on Maui.

Schools benefiting from the Salad Bar Project will receive healthy salad bar kits in the next few weeks, including a five-well Canmbro® salad bar comprised of utensils, pan inserts, chilling pads and training tools. More tools and videos for school nutrition staff will additionally be available through TheLunchBox.org, which Whole Foods Market shoppers helped to build in 2009 so that all schools can enjoy access to healthier food tools and tips.

Donations to Whole Foods Market’s Salad Bar Project surpassed the set goal of $750,000, amounting to more than $1.4 million during the market’s month-long in-store and online fundraising campaign last September.

For additional information on Whole Foods Market Kahului, which recently celebrated its one year anniversary, please call (808) 872 -3310.

Maui Now covers the latest food news and events throughout the island and appreciates suggestions. Please send tips or feedback to erica@mauinow.com.