For 55 years, Lanakila Pacific Meals on Wheels has delivered more than meals—it has fostered lasting relationships with kupuna across Oahu.
The program began in 1971 in partnership with the City & County of Honolulu as the Honolulu Nutrition Program, serving meals from a lunch wagon in Aala Park. It was a place where seniors could gather, share a meal, and connect. While much has evolved over time, that spirit of aloha remains at the heart of the program.
“As the pioneer of the Honolulu Nutrition Program for older adults, our legacy is to deliver a program where people are seen, heard, and feel they belong,” said Rona Yagi Fukumoto, president and CEO of Lanakila Pacific. “We are proud to continue this tradition of building community.”
Over the years, Lanakila Pacific Meals on Wheels has grown alongside Hawaii’s aging population and the changing needs of kupuna. What began as a meal service has expanded into a broader network of support—home delivery of meals and fresh, locally grown produce for homebound seniors and individuals with disabilities, to welcoming active seniors through Lanakila Pacific’s Kupuna Wellness program. There, participants enjoy meals, activities, and shared time with others.
During the COVID‑19 pandemic, Lanakila Pacific expanded digital literacy efforts to help seniors stay informed and engaged during periods of isolation. Today, this work continues through Kupuna U, which offers both in‑person and virtual resources and opportunities that support healthy aging.
Lanakila Pacific Meals on Wheels is Oahu’s only island‑wide meal delivery program serving seniors and individuals with disabilities. Last year, the program reached more than 1,400 individuals and delivered nearly 300,000 meals across the island. Sustaining this level of service for more than five decades is possible because of the ongoing support of donors, community partners, and volunteers.
Behind every delivery is a dedicated team. Eight staff members and more than 280 regular volunteers pack meals, coordinate routes, deliver, and check in on kupuna—ensuring each visit is not just a delivery, but a meaningful human interaction.
“Every delivery is an opportunity to connect with someone,” said Lori Lau, Director of Lanakila Pacific Meals on Wheels. “Over 55 years, those moments have become part of what this program means to so many kupuna.”