Mayor Victorino announces grant awards for Hawaiian cultural event and community awareness

Mayor Michael Victorino announced the award of grants to two nonprofit groups, for fiscal year 2022, totaling $28,400 to support Hawaiian cultural events and raise community awareness of and appreciation for the islands’ host culture.

“We should never underestimate the value of our cultural roots,” Mayor Michael Victorino said. “Whether we are Hawaiian or Hawaiian at heart, these projects provide an important connection with the history and heritage of our host culture.”

Maui Food Technology Center Inc. has received $18,400 for its project, Maui Nui a Kama Pa`hana Hoailona Ahupua - Kula Uka. This project to install ahupua`a signs educates the community about the traditional ahupua`a system of managing land segments from mauka to makai, or mountain to sea. The project also promotes island agriculture and economic diversification. 

Lokahi Pacific has received a $10,000 grant for an event to celebrate Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalaniana'ole Day here on Maui. The event featured moʻolelo (stories) of Kalanianaʻole along with crafts, music and hula. The celebration also provided a venue for performing artists, crafters and small businesses.

For more information about grants, visit the Office of Economic Development website at https://www.mauicounty.gov/141/Office-Of-Economic-Development or call the office at (808) 270-7710.