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Culinary Collaborations Rooted In The Greater Good
COVID CHEF COLLECTIVE
When Maui tourism tanked during the COVID-19 pandemic, Jason redirected his professional culinary efforts and founded the Chef Collective for Covid in June 2020.
"I wanted to invest in the people of Maui, so I started envisioning ways to help the community to nurture itself."
The Chef Collective gave local furloughed chefs the opportunity to create farm to table dinners that were delivered to vulnerable members of our community, free of charge.
"During the months we were active, we raised more than $25,000 to help support local farms."
FIRE CHEF COLLECTIVE
On August 8th, 2023, just as Maui had recovered from the pandemic... tragedy struck. The now historic fire swept across Lahaina, taking out most of the town- including Jason's home. Considering himself lucky to be alive, he sprung into action once again.
"My girlfriend and I narrowly escaped as wildfires encroached upon our neighborhood, forcing us to flee in the chaos...I had salvaged only a few possessions, including my knives and passport."
The Birth Of A Solid Partnership
In response to the catastrophe, a collaboration sparked between Jason and Hua Momona Farm's owner, Gary Grube. Efforts swiftly mobilized, transforming fresh produce into nourishment for displaced residents. Within hours, Gary’s newly outfitted kitchen became a beacon of hope - churning out hundreds of meals a day.
The program evolved to encompass farming, kitchen work, and meal delivery. Within six months of the tragedy, 40,000 meals had been prepared and delivered.
ONWARD & UPWARD
Grateful for the opportunity, Jason contributed to the preparation and distribution of over 55,000 meals in one year with The Hua Momona Foundation. Today he is working on his own non-profit to continue food security efforts on Maui.
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