The History of K&K Farms Foundation

Early days at K&K Farm

How did the farm start?

In June of 2021 we signed a lease with landowner Hawaii Reserves Inc for 5 acres.  Upon signing the lease, we discovered that our grandparents used these lands to farm taro and supply their Poi factory in Laie.  

What does the K&K represent?

In honor of our grandparents and the service and work they provided in our community, we were honored to name our farm after them, Kuailipoilani (grandfather) and Kalehuamakanoe (grandmother), whose last name is Kehauoha.

What is your purpose?  

During the 2020 World Pandemic and its consequences, we saw food insecurity within our communities and the effects it had on the vulnerable.  We then decided to fill that need through our farm’s resources.  

Our workforce is based on the Hukilau principle.  When a large school of fish would swim into the bay. The community was called to help pull or huki the nets to shore. The catch would then be distributed among the families.  This is the work principle we use with families, schools, churches, and community organizations.  Those who come to work at our farm will reap the harvest.

Who do you serve?

We have partnered with Elementary, High School, Youth Organizations and Community Families to schedule annual work and educational events. This would include our annual Farm Fair.  Groups ranging from 10 to 400 have provided service at our farm.

While clearing the land and installing our waterlines, we planted our first crop in December 2021. Our first harvest was in July that same year.  By years end we harvested and distributed 1,247 lbs. of taro and 110 lbs. of sweet potatoes.  In 2023 we harvested and distributed 3,775 lbs. of taro, 340 lbs. of long squash and 530 lbs. of poi. January to July 2024 we harvested and distributed 1,283 lbs. of taro and 2,678 lbs. of poi.

How many different types of taro do you have?

We currently have 121 varieties of taro in our Huli Bank.  The purpose of this Bank is to preserve and perpetuate the different taro varieties. We have given away thousands of Huli (taro starters) at our events and as requested by other farmers.

What's next?

It is our hope to fulfill our Mission Statement and meet our goals in the coming years.

• Mission Statement and Hukilau Principle