During National Volunteer Month, Airbnb made a significant impact by donating $1 million to address food insecurity across the Hawaiian Islands. This generous contribution was celebrated through a volunteer event at the Hawai'i Foodbank warehouse, where Airbnb hosts and local leaders participated in sorting and boxing dry goods and produce. The funds will be distributed among four major food banks throughout the state, aiming to provide approximately 2 million meals statewide.

Amy Miller, president and CEO of Hawai'i Foodbank, expressed gratitude for Airbnb's support, emphasizing the importance of nourishment for families, elders, and children. Janel Cozzens, Hawai'i senior public policy manager at Airbnb, highlighted the company's pride in supporting local foodbanks, acknowledging the ongoing challenge of food insecurity and their commitment to providing both immediate relief and long-term solutions.

Community Collaboration to Tackle Food Insecurity

Through a collaborative effort involving Airbnb hosts, Hawai'i Foodbank staff, nonprofit leaders, and government representatives, a volunteer event was organized to combat food insecurity. Participants spent the morning actively sorting and packaging essential items destined for communities in need. This hands-on work symbolized Airbnb's dedication to not only financial contributions but also active participation in community service.

The event featured the presentation of a $1 million check, one of the largest single donations received by the Hawai'i Foodbank in recent years. This substantial amount will be shared among four primary food banks: Hawai'i Foodbank (serving O'ahu and Kaua'i), Maui Food Bank, and The Food Basket on Hawai'i Island. The donation aims to alleviate food shortages experienced by numerous households across the islands. Amy Miller, president and CEO of Hawai'i Foodbank, underscored the significance of this gift, noting its potential to provide roughly 2 million meals statewide. The involvement of First Lady Jaime Green and a representative from Honolulu Council Chair Tommy Waters' office further emphasized the widespread recognition and appreciation of Airbnb's efforts.

Airbnb’s Commitment to Global Community Support

Beyond the local impact, Airbnb's donation reflects a broader commitment to global community initiatives. The funding originates from the Airbnb Community Fund, established in 2020 as part of an ambitious plan to distribute $100 million to organizations worldwide by 2030. This year alone, over 160 nonprofits across more than 30 countries have been selected as grant recipients.

Janel Cozzens, Hawai'i senior public policy manager at Airbnb, reiterated the company's pride in supporting local foodbanks while addressing the persistent issue of food insecurity affecting countless households across the islands. By aligning with the goals of the Airbnb Community Fund, the organization demonstrates its dedication to fostering both immediate relief and sustainable change. The initiative underscores Airbnb's role as a global leader in corporate social responsibility, illustrating how strategic partnerships can effectively tackle pressing societal challenges. This donation exemplifies the power of collaboration between private enterprises and nonprofit organizations in creating meaningful, lasting impacts on communities worldwide.