Press Release

The Arc of Hilo
Contact: Marta Birchard  935-8535  #228
mbirchard@hiloarc.org

January 3rd, 2017    

SAFEWAY FOUNDATION AWARDS ARC OF HILO $1500

The Arc of Hilo Board of Directors, staff and participants gratefully acknowledge the receipt of a $1500 grant from the Safeway Foundation in support of the ‘Eat Healthy’ Program and the new ‘Cold Kitchen’ initiative.  This program will enable people with disabilities the opportunity to incorporate healthier food options to their daily lunches while learning food prep and menu planning.  

Another aspect of this program will be the use of the cold kitchen to teach vocational skills to clients who are interested in employment in the food service industry. The Arc’s CEO, Debbie Perkins stated “We are very grateful for Safeway’s support and sponsorship in making this grant possible.”

“The Arc of Hilo is a job creator for low income individuals with systemic and/or personal barriers to employment and self-sufficiency. The cold kitchen will expand our ability to train and place more individuals in our local restaurant businesses and foster community inclusion” says Mrs. Perkins.

As the national agenda becomes increasingly rooted in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live completely self-determined lives in the community, we too are engaging in incentives to help individuals by providing new vocational training opportunities and the ability to join the workforce in an environment of their choosing.