MEO Youth Services volunteered at a Christmas Eve meal distribution at Waiola Church in Lahaina. Youths held up signs with holiday and drive sober messages. After completing their volunteer work, the students visited the historic Banyan Tree.

LAHAINA — Maui Economic Opportunity’s Youth Services participants and staff volunteered at a holiday food distribution event at Waiola Church in Lahaina on Christmas Eve.

Sixteen high school and intermediate youths in the program, aimed at alcohol and substance abuse, bullying and suicide prevention, joined a handful of staff in supporting the event that provided 800 meals.

Students made and displayed signs wishing everyone happy holidays, to stay COVID-19 safe and to drive sober. Youth leaders delivered the meals to vehicles in the drive-through event.

The holiday food distribution for those in need was sponsored by the Aloha Legacy Program of Na Mea Ike Ia.

Youth Services was joined by Kalei’s Lunchbox & Catering; The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua; Kaanapali Beach Hotel; Old Lahaina Luau; Down the Hatch; Salvation Army; Maria Lanakila Church; Kumulani Chapel; Citizen Church Maui; and Waiola Church to prepare and distribute meals.

MEO Youth Services runs substance abuse prevention programs during school, after school and during summer and school breaks. Youths participate in drug- and alcohol-free activities that are fun, strengthen the family, embrace culture and reinforce healthy lifestyles.

The goals of the evidence-based curriculum are to prevent or delay the age when youths begin smoking and drinking.

For more information, visit meoinc.org or call 249-2990.