Ulupono supports ‘Aina Pono.

*Formally known as the Farm-To-School Initiative and ‘Aina Pono: Hawai‘i’s Farm-to-Cafeteria Initiative

The initiative’s goal is to address the supply-and-demand issues surround the purchasing of local food for State school cafeterias. It also aims to systematically increase State purchases of local food for school menus.

Spearheaded by Lt. Governor Shan Tsutsui, the Aina Pono: Hawaii State Farm to School Initiative launched at the Kohala School Complex on Hawaii Island in the second half of the 2016-2017 school year. The Kohala School Complex was selected as the pilot location since its single kitchen serves all three complex schools – Kohala Elementary, Kohala Intermediate and Kohala High Schools.

Chef Greg Christian of Beyond Green Sustainable Food Partners was brought in as a culinary consultant to develop affordable and healthy menus using fresh, local foods from Hawaii Island. He also trained cafeteria staff on new cooking methods.

The pilot program was deemed successful in introducing local foods to the Kohala School Complex, and is currently looking to expand to other Hawaii Island schools

Ulupono Initiative is a partner in the State’s initiative to bring more local food into Hawaii’s public schools. With the schools providing fresh and nutritious breakfast and lunch items to island keiki, the Aina Pono: Hawaii State Farm to School Initiative is opening up a supply opportunity for local farmers and exposing students and staff members to local foods.

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