Ironman Foundation - Kahiau Together
Each year on the Island of Hawai`i, the local community gives of themselves to create the success of the IRONMAN World Championship. As the Kona community perpetuates aloha worldwide, they give of themselves, graciously, generously from their heart to help unknown individuals from around the world fulfill a dream. The people of Hawai`i teach us "Kahiau" - to give generously or lavishly with the heart and not with expectation of return.
As COVID-19 impacts our world we are reminded of the importance of our `Ohana. The sudden change of life has awakened us to pause, reflect and be grateful. The rugged beauty, grace and aloha inspires the world providing strength, courage and the ability to overcome any challenge.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, great economic uncertainty and the ever-increasing rates of unemployment, homelessness and food insecurity, the IRONMAN Foundation has pledged $1 million to provide hunger relief on the Island of Hawai`i through the Kahiau Together initiative.
Tell me more
The Kahiau Together initiative has three programs to serve the Island of Hawai`i:
Mākaukau (Ready) Meals
ʻOhana Grocery Bundles
Grants to Local Nonprofits Providing Hunger Relief
Mākaukau (Ready) Meals will nourish the most isolated and vulnerable keiki (youth) and kupuna (elderly) in the community. Ready-made meals are ideal for those who do not have the means to prepare or store food. The meals are served at our Kahiau Together Aid Station drive-through events.
ʻOhana Grocery Bundles will serve families, from infant to kupuna, of the increasing furloughed employees reliant on tourism. Bundles of perishable and non-perishable food are ideal for individuals/families that have the means to prepare meals. The bundles are distributed at our Kahiau Together Aid Station drive-through events.
Grants to Local Nonprofits Providing Hunger Relief will provide local charitable organizations with critical funding to fill food banks, meet ongoing needs and provide long-term support for the community.
Who can apply for a Kahiau Together Grant?
The Kahiau Together Grant Program specifically supports hunger relief on the Island of Hawai`i. Local nonprofit organizations meeting nutritional needs are welcome to apply using the application found HERE.
Note that submitting an application is not a guarantee of funding. The IRONMAN Foundation team will contact your organization if selected.
How does my organization apply for a Kahiau Together Grant?
Potential grantees submit a comprehensive grant application HERE.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please contact Mahea Akau with your Kahiau Together questions at mahea.akau@ironman.com