WAILUKU – Mayor Michael Victorino last week announced that the Office of Economic Development is seeking businesses to participate in the Kama’aina First program.

The program, which plans to launch June 1, gives local residents an opportunity to take advantage of deals on food, services and products while supporting local businesses impacted by COVID-19 in Maui County.

“This program allows our residents to enjoy our islands first, before we fully adjust to the new normal,” Mayor Victorino said. “Life has changed drastically for our kama’aina, and we look forward to businesses offering them the chance to enjoy unique restaurants, activities and products.”

OED will be gathering the deals and discounts at no cost to participating businesses. Businesses interested in offering special kama’aina deals are asked to visit www.kamaainafirst.com to upload their information.

“With the summer approaching, we want to encourage our residents to stay on island and continue to support our local businesses, especially those who normally serve the visitor industry,” OED Director Kay Fukumoto said.

“We can help by patronizing businesses so that they can hire back our families and friends.”

For more information, call 270-7710 or e-mail oed@mauicounty.gov.