HILO, HAWAI‘I — Ho‘ōla Farms, a Hawai‘i Island-based nonprofit, has launched a new initiative, Veggies for Veterans, to improve the health and well-being of military Veterans through increased access to fresh, locally grown food. The program is part of Ho‘ōla Farms’ broader Food is Medicine initiative and is supported by the 2024 Food is Medicine focus area, a grant from Kaiser Permanente.
Running from February through May 2025, this limited-time pilot program will serve 90 Veterans in East Hawai‘i managing chronic health conditions. Participants receive bi-weekly deliveries of fresh produce and protein valued at $40 per delivery. These food bags are sourced from local farmers, ensuring that Veterans receive nutrient-dense, Hawai‘i-grown products while also supporting the island’s agricultural economy.
“Food is one of the most powerful forms of medicine,” said Emily Emmons, Executive Director of Ho‘ōla Farms. “This program bridges the gap between clinical care and food access—providing fresh, locally grown food in a way that reinforces healthy eating habits, supports long-term well-being, and reminds Veterans that nourishing their bodies is a vital step in their journey toward healing”
The program, run in partnership with the Hilo VA Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), addresses the disproportionate impact of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions on Hawai‘i’s kūpuna and Veteran populations.
In Their Words
Veterans receiving the food have expressed deep gratitude for the support. One participant, Akama Thomson, shared:
“I am an 80-year-old U.S. Army Veteran… For the last 3 months every other week, Liz will come by with two bags of wonderful quality food items. Always of the highest standard. I am certain that I speak for many other vets who are recipients of your program. The benefits that you are offering to us in your kindness and thoughtfulness are very special and unique.”
What’s Next
As the Veggies for Veterans pilot concludes in May, Ho‘ōla Farms is actively seeking partners and funding to continue and expand the program. The organization plans to increase the number of Veterans served, improve health outcomes, and create a stronger market for local farmers.
Get Involved
Interested in supporting or collaborating on this initiative?
Email us at grow@hoolafarms.org — we’d love to connect.
Or visit our Contact Page to learn more.
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