In a move that underscores the local government's commitment to supporting both its senior residents and local businesses, the County of Maui has issued a request for proposals (RFP) to expand the availability of locally sourced food at senior congregate dining sites. According to Maui Now's recent report, the initiative is designed to improve the nutritional value of meals and the quality of life for senior citizens, while concurrently stimulating the local economy by supporting area food providers.
The project, titled "Locally Grown Healthy Food for the Kupuna program," officially opened on December 3, with bid proposals due by January 30. The County of Maui's Department of Human Concerns, which operates the Congregate Dining Program, currently provides meals and social interactions for the elderly across Maui, Moloka‘i, and Lāna‘i. The RFP is designed to supplement existing senior congregate dining services with locally sourced food, meaning contractors will work alongside current providers to meet the needs of the community. According to County Department of Agriculture Director, Rogerene “Kali” Arce, the program is a “crucial way to support healthy aging, reduce social isolation, and promote food security.”
The program presents a good opportunity for several types of local businesses, especially given the emphasis on locally sourced food. Agriculture businesses and farms are the most obvious beneficiaries; however, food trucks and catering companies could also be well-positioned to collaborate with the County. The initiative aligns with the Rural Economic Development Planning Report that encourages strategies to support entrepreneurship in rural communities, promote local economic development and foster small business growth. Furthermore, the initiative underscores the importance of food security--a key focus highlighted in the report, which emphasizes the value of expanding regional food systems in order to better withstand economic distress.
This decision by Maui County presents a win-win opportunity for the local economy and the island's seniors. By supporting local food providers, the program promises to create economic opportunities while enriching the lives of kupuna through access to nutritious, locally sourced meals while simultaneously supporting local agriculture.
