DOE food distribution is underway in Ka‘u as more than 850 students remain out of school following Hurricane Lala damage that closed Na‘alehu Elementary and Ka‘u High & Pahala Elementary. While the state Department of Education expects to resume in-person classes next week, the agency this week launched meal and supply pick-ups for families in Pahala, Na‘alehu and Ocean View.
DOE food distribution sites and schedule
The department plans weekly distributions at sites in each community, with an estimated 4,500 meals provided per week. At Wednesday’s Pahala pick-up, a steady line of cars collected bags with five days of breakfast and lunch per child.
Packages also included toiletries and grade-level take-home learning materials. School leaders from across Ka‘u joined the effort.
Na‘alehu Elementary Principal Jason Britt said the immediate priority is caring for families so students can return ready to learn. “Education is, of course, my top priority,” he said, adding that students need safe housing and food, then a timely return to the classroom.
Ka‘u High & Pahala Elementary Principal Tiffany Pratt noted that many students and staff are coping with loss from the hurricane. She said the schools are also focused on social and emotional support so teachers are ready to welcome students back.
Pratt described a teacher whose home was nearly swept away by a river, underscoring the trauma many are facing. U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda helped distribute bags at the site and said setting up regular, predictable pick-ups is key for families in crisis.
She pointed to lessons from the pandemic, wildfires and Kona lows, saying schools provide stability and basic needs when communities are disrupted. “When we talk about schools as safe places, it’s not just the buildings — it’s the people,” Tokuda said, praising educators and staff for their commitment to students and families.
As supplies were handed through car windows, staff checked in with families and shared hopes of returning to campus soon. The DOE said the weekly distributions will continue until further notice.
Where and when to pick up
- Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Ka‘u High & Pahala Elementary School and Na‘alehu Hongwanji Mission
- Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: St. Jude’s Episcopal Church in Ocean View
For more information, visit Hawaii State Department of Education.
Families still recovering from Tropical Depression Two-C can also look to schools for ongoing support and services.
Additional community resources may be available through Hawaii County and local relief organizations.
