Advocating for food systems change in Hawaiʻi
Hawaiʻi Food+ Policy is an internship program through Purple Maiʻa, giving Hawaiʻi college students and young farmers hands-on experience in civic engagement and food systems advocacy. Our next cohort's applications are open now through November 13.
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In 2026, Food+ interns tracked 239 food system bills, 21 were signed into law.
“Learning how testimony works and how community voices shape the legislative record has been especially empowering, making civic engagement feel accessible and showing me that people from nontraditional policy backgrounds can engage meaningfully.”
— 2026 Intern
Policy Focus Areas
Pillar 1:
Local Agriculture, Farmers, and Food Production
Strengthen Hawaiʻi’s capacity to feed itself by supporting local farmers, expanding opportunities for young and emerging farmers, and reducing reliance on imported foods.
Pillar 2:
Regenerative, Indigenous, and Climate-Resilient Food Systems
Restore ecosystems, uplift indigenous knowledge, and build long-term resilience in the face of climate change.
Pillar 3:
Food Access, Health, and Cultural Nourishment
Support community access to healthy, affordable, and culturally meaningful food.
Pillar 4:
Farm to School, Education, and Youth Food Pathways
Increase food literacy and strengthen the connection between learners and Hawaiʻi-grown foods.
Need help submitting testimony? Check out our Legislative Resources
Mahalo to our sponsors, past & present:
