Hawai‘i Police Department hosting Fill a Police Cruiser Kōkua events to support Lala recovery

Hawai‘i Police Department will host three Fill a Cruiser Kōkua events in response to the extraordinary challenges facing the Big Island community after devastating impacts from Hurricane Lala.

The department’s Kona and Hilo community policing sections are partnering with local businesses and community organizations to collect essential supplies for individuals and families affected by the hurricane. Collection events are planned for Aug. 20 in Kona and Hilo.

Kona Community Policing Section is partnering with Kona Costco, Kona Walmart, The Food Basket – Hawai‘i Island’s Food Bank, Friends of First Responders and KAPA Radio personality Tommy Ching to host two events simultaneously from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the entrances of:

• Kona Costco, 73-5600 Maiau St., Kailua-Kona.
• Kona Walmart, 75-1015 Henry St., Kailua-Kona.

Hilo Community Policing Section is partnering with Safeway Hilo, The Food Basket and Vibrant Hawai‘i for a collection event from noon to 6 p.m. at:

• Hilo Safeway, 381 E. Maka‘ala St., Hilo.

A blue-and-white marked police cruiser will be stationed at each location.

Community members are encouraged to donate food, water and basic living necessities such as diapers, infant formula and personal hygiene products. The goal is to fill the police cruisers to capacity with much-needed supplies.

All donated items and monetary contributions will be distributed by The Food Basket to individuals and families in need around Hawai‘i Island.

Everyone who can is encouraged to participate in this meaningful event. The community’s kōkua and generosity will make a significant difference in the lives of many around our island.

Contact Officer Dwayne Sluss with Kona Community Policing Section at 808-326-4646, extension 3259, or via email at dwayne.sluss@hawaiipolice.gov for additional information about the Kona events.

Contact Hilo Community Policing Officer Christopher Barto at 808-961-8849 or via email at Christopher.barto@hawaiipolice.gov for more info about the Hilo event.