North Shore NewsKokua Hawai‘i Foundation (KHF) hosted a community blessing and announced plans for their new property in the heart of Hale‘iwa town which includes seven-acres of agricultural land and two historic commercial buildings. The foundation’s vision for the new site is to establish agricultural, educational, and retail activities that benefit the community while promoting local food, waste reduction and environmental stewardship.
On Friday, December 6th, over 200 community members came together at the site of the future HF learning farm to share in the blessing of the land and new project. As part of the ceremony Kokua Hawai‘i Foundation staff invited keiki to help plant an ‘ulu tree as a symbol of the group’s collective intentions for growth and abundance. Following the blessing led by Frank Palakiko Yagodich, neighbors and partners joined together at the KHF Community Outreach Pop-up, at the site of the former Hale‘iwa Flower Shop, for locally sourced pupu prepared by local ‘AINA Chef partners Ed Kenney (TOWN), Kathy Maddox (Mohala Farms), Willie Barrera (‘Iwa Eats), Lamont Brown (Maya’s Tapas & Wine), and Marsha Taylor (Waialua High School’s Culinary Arts Program). Ron Artis II and KHF board members Kawika Kahiapo and Jack Johnson played music. Students from the Waialua High & Intermediate School Eco Club lent a hand to help with event parking and waste reduction.
Kim Johnson, KHF Co-Founder and President shared, “There are certain moments in life that reaffirm that you are on the right path. This was one of those moments. We are so grateful for everyone who as made the journey with us and we are excited for what is to come.” Jack Johnson continues, “We are excited to be putting our energy into this magical piece of land. We can’t wait to get our hands in the soil with the community to make it even more special.”
Founded in 2003 by Kim and Jack Johnson, Kokua Hawai’i Foundation is a 501(c)3 that supports environmental education in Hawaii’s schools and communities. KHF provides students and educators unique interactions and opportunities through field trips, educational programs, and hands-on discovery to be lifelong stewards of the earth.
Be on the lookout for KHF outreach pop-ups at the old Hale‘iwa Flower Shop and first Saturday of the month community workdays starting in January. For more information, please visit: kokuahawaiifoundation.org