Upcountry Strong has launched a fundraising campaign to keep “Da Store”—Maui’s only Upcountry food pantry—open through 2026.
***As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all donations to Upcountry Strong are 100% tax deductible.***
Opened in August 2024, the pantry provides frozen proteins like ground beef and venison, fresh produce, eggs, and pantry staples to hundreds of households each week. It serves kupuna, keiki, fire survivors, and working families across Maui, emphasizing dignity, nutrition, and locally sourced food.
“From kupuna and keiki to families housing fire survivors, the need has only grown,” said Claudia Garcia, President of Upcountry Strong. “We need the community’s help to keep the pantry doors open into next year.”
The pantry currently serves 180–200 clients per week—over 2,000 family members monthly—and registers about 50 new clients each month. With operating costs of $8,000–$10,000 per month, an additional $100,000 is needed to sustain services in 2026.
How to Help
• Give on Giving Tuesday (Dec. 2): Global Giving will match donations made that day.
• Support year-round: Contributions cover rent, utilities, and food purchases from local farmers.
• Donate food: Fresh produce and frozen proteins are always welcome.
Donate
PayPal
https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/upcountrystrongmaui
Venmo
Mail:
Upcountry Strong
196 S. Makaleha Pl.
Makawao, Hawaii 96768
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In 2019, with 9.3% of our state population making a household income below the poverty level ($25,926 for a family of four), Hawaii ranked 6th worst in the nation. In addition, Hawaii had the highest cost of living index, at 196.3. This means that the cost of living in Hawaii is 96.3% higher than the U.S. average. Groceries are significantly more expensive in Hawaii since it is an island chain, and most goods must be shipped in. Nothing is more important than food security and with your funding assistance, Upcountry Strong aims to continue to help bridge this gap. We sincerely thank you for your donation to support our community!
