Cofounder resident Claudia Garcia of Maui International Real Estate Services and next-door neighbors are the co-creators of #UPCOUNTRYSTRONG, a community-driven effort that has since evolved into Upcountry Strong, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

In December, Upcountry Strong made its debut as a 501(c)3 nonprofit with Garcia, Kamakaokalani, Wood, and Musto together with Pukalani Superette president Megan Nakashima serving on its board of directors. The nonprofit now works with several community partners, including Pukalani Superette, the Maui Food Bank, Oskie Rice Arena, Haleakala Ranch, Polli’s Mexican Restaurant, Kaonoulu Ranch, Common Ground Collective, Pacific Media Group, and Meadow Gold.

To date, there have been six food distribution events and Garcia estimates between 200 and 225 recipients have been served each time.

Upcoming Dates:

February 18, 2023

April 22,2023

June 16,2023

August 19, 2023

November 4, 2023

The pandemic may be abating, but Garcia says the need for food assistance isn’t going away anytime soon—and neither is Upcountry Strong. “This isn’t just a COVID venture,” she said. “We are in this for long haul.”

For now, food is Upcountry Strong’s main focus, but Garcia says the nonprofit plans to broaden its scope and assist residents in other areas of need. “Our long-term goal is to be a resource for the Upcountry community,” she said.

You can help them achieve that goal by making a monetary donation in any amount or by purchasing an Upcountry Strong logo t-shirt at Pukalani Superette; all proceeds will go to the nonprofit. Logo hats are also available via the group’s Facebook page. Upcountry Strong is in need of a facility—like a warehouse or storage unit, ideally in the Upcountry area—to store donations and supplies. For more information about Upcountry Strong or to inquire about donor opportunities, call Claudia Garcia at 298-9257, email claudiaonmaui@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/upcountrystrong.