September Makana Pono

Jessica explained that her family’s love language is food, which caused her to align with the mission of the Hawaii Foodbank. “I come from a family where we show that we love each other through food, like many of us do,” she said. “The Foodbank shows its love to thousands of people! It allows grandparents and parents to continue to show their children and families that they are loved as well.”

The work of the Hawaii Foodbank has been especially crucial recently in helping ohana impacted by COVID-19. With over 200 partner agencies across Oahu and Kauai, the Hawaii Foodbank is the state’s leading hunger-relief organization. In addition to shelf-stable foods, the organization provides meats, produce and other grocery items to those who need them.

As an RN, Jessica also provides care to families and patients during challenging times. “My job is to do everything possible to help not only patients but families, to assist them through one of the most difficult times a family can go through,” she explained. “I am there to listen, talk, advise or just hold their hands.”

In October, Jessica will celebrate her two-year work anniversary with Islands Hospice. In addition to showing compassion and support to the foodbank, Jessica also holds animal causes near to her heart and supports wildlife conservation and the Humane Society.