This month, we’re celebrating National Older Americans Month, also recognized locally as “Honor Our Kupuna Month” by the Honolulu City Council. It’s a fitting time to reflect on the contributions, wisdom, and resilience of Hawaii’s older adults, and the lasting impact of Lanakila Meals on Wheels—a program founded by seniors, for seniors, over 50 years ago.
Lanakila Meals on Wheels is a meal delivery service and a lifeline that supports the independence, health, and well-being of Hawaii’s kupuna. Established in 1971 as the Honolulu Nutrition Program in partnership with the City & County of Honolulu, it began as a humble lunch wagon in Aala Park, run entirely by seniors. From cooking and serving meals to leading social activities, these kupuna came together to care for one another. It laid the foundation for what would grow into one of Hawaii’s most important senior services.
Today, Lanakila Pacific continues this legacy by offering a wide range of support for kupuna. In addition to meal delivery, services include fresh produce delivery, digital literacy classes, in-person and virtual gathering spaces, and SNAP application assistance—all designed to help seniors stay connected, nourished, and independent.
Even now, many retired seniors volunteer to help pack and deliver meals, continuing the tradition of kupuna helping kupuna. As Maxine, a former recipient, shared, “It’s not just Lanakila itself, it’s the volunteers that make Lanakila. What makes Lanakila is the people that work for them… I find more malama when I talk to them.”
Lanakila Pacific’s Kupuna Wellness efforts, including tech classes, also play a key role. Elouise, a former participant, found confidence through learning how to use her smartphone: “With Lanakila Meals on Wheels, it’s easier for me to remain independent and still be a volunteer in the community.” From staying active in the community to connecting with others online, these programs help kupuna continue doing what they love.
This spirit of mutual support is at the heart of Lanakila’s mission. It’s a reflection of what makes our community strong. As we honor Older Americans Month and Honor Our Kupuna Month, we recognize the invaluable contributions of our kupuna and reaffirm our commitment to caring for them, just as they have cared for us.