Maui Food Bank Executive Director Richard Yust (left) and Warren K. Watanabe, executive director of the Maui County Farm Bureau, gear up for the first annual Kaanapali Fresh event over Labor Day Weekend. The two organizations have been selected as beneficiaries by festival organizers. Photo by Steve Brinkman Photography.

KAANAPALI – Kaanapali Fresh – a new three-day summer event highlighting Kaanapali as the “premium spot for exquisite cuisine, unforgettable experiences and superb entertainment” – has partnered with Maui County Farm Bureau and Maui Food Bank for two powerful community give-back programs.

“Kaanapali Fresh can only succeed thanks to the many people of Maui who quietly contribute in the background,” said Shelley Kekuna, executive director of the Kaanapali Beach Resort Association.

“They include our farmers as well as residents who, for varied reasons, can barely make ends meet. The two non-profits are a natural choice for the debut of Kaanapali Fresh.”

The event is set for Friday, Aug. 31, through Sunday, Sept. 2.

A silent auction during the signature Kaanapali Fresh Food & Wine Festival on Saturday, Sept. 1, from 6 to 10 p.m. will benefit the Maui County Farm Bureau, a 501(c)(5) organization of farms and ranch families, agricultural industries and associated organizations dedicated to supporting agriculture on Maui.

During the evening, agriculture will become visible with farmers, chefs and winemakers working together to create beautiful farm-to-table menus.

“On behalf of our farmers, we thank everyone in advance for participating,” said Warren K. Watanabe, executive director of the Maui County Farm Bureau.

“I really believe that Grown on Maui benefits our visitors and communities in providing fresh, flavorful products, strengthening our local economy, and keeping Maui’s agricultural lands managed and productive. The support we receive from Kaanapali Fresh means a lot to us.”

Beach Activities of Maui (BAM) and UFO Parasail are donating $10 to the Maui Food Bank for each activity booked directly during the extended weekend of Kaanapali Fresh (Friday-Monday).

The Maui Food Bank helps the hungry in Maui County by collecting and distributing food through community partnerships.

“It takes our entire island ‘ohana working together to solve the hunger problem we are facing in Maui County,” said Richard Yust, Maui Food Bank executive director.

“A statewide network of suppliers allows us to turn each dollar donated into about six pounds of groceries, fresh produce, bread, meat, fish and poultry. I thank Beach Activities of Maui and UFO Parasail, who are making a difference to help the hungry.”

How does it work? For in-person bookings during Kaanapali Fresh, mention the Food Bank. Choices for ocean and beach adventures can also be made ahead of time via the Kaanapali Fresh website at kaanapalifresh.com by following the links on the activities page. Make your selection, call to make reservations and make sure to mention Maui Food Bank.

To reach BAM, call 661-5500. To contact UFO, call (800) 359-4836.

Kaanapali Fresh invites residents, hotel guests and event participants to support its chosen community programs by booking beach activities and by reserving a spot for the Saturday dinner/silent auction now.

It’s a great chance to get out and about, have fun on the beach, eat good food and contribute to the community.

Businesses wishing to donate to the silent auction may call 661-3271.