This year marks the 20th anniversary of Kekoa’s annual “Stuffed With Aloha” backpack and school supply distribution project. It all began when Kekoa was just 10 years old and wanted to help children in need prepare for the school year. Along with his sisters, Ka’imi and Kamalani, he created the project to provide students with backpacks filled with school supplies.
In the early days, we worried we might not succeed without financial backing. However, community members stepped up after reading a small story about us in the Leeward Current. Some donated backpacks and supplies, while others gave us recyclable materials to turn in for cash to help fund our project.
A few years later, when we were struggling, reporter Ms. Olena Heu shared our story, which provided a much-needed boost. As the number of children in need grew, Ms. Heu helped us again by inviting Kekoa and Kamalani to the KHON News Studio for a live segment. Although they were nervous initially, they relaxed after Kamalani shared how she had secured a spot at Windward Mall’s Kids Inc. to sell her handmade crafts and donate a portion of her earnings to the project. Thanks to that broadcast, we secured dedicated sponsors who have supported us throughout the years.
We are forever grateful to everyone who has helped make Stuffed With Aloha a success each year. Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces when they receive their backpacks is truly priceless, and we feel incredibly blessed.
Mahalo nui loa,
Makua Leilani and Kekoa
Photos by Makua Leilani
