Cook Community Builders program raised funds to provide a new Food Trailer for Dee's Poi Mochi, a famous Lahaina food truck.
The CSG's Cook Community Builders program asked for donations to get Dee's Poi Mochi back up and running! Dee lost everything during the devastating fires in Lahaina Maui. Her family's place to live, her husband’s truck, and their famous food trailer. Insurance is only covering a fraction of the costs they need to get back up and running. And, CSG Customers, Employees & Family and with the help of Quality Trailers Inc. delivered!
Dee's Full Story: Dee’s Poi Mochi is not just any food truck. It symbolizes the rich tapestry of Hawaii's history and culture. The significance of taro (her business logo and her main ingredient) and poi in Hawaii extends beyond mere sustenance. They represent the very essence of Hawaiian heritage, embodying the connection between the people and their ʻāina (land). By assisting Dee, we would not only be aiding an individual family but also contributing towards preserving this culturally significant business, ensuring that the roots of Hawaiian tradition continue to nourish future generations. Tragically, the recent wildfires have taken away both her home and her beloved trailer – her source of income. Imagine the pain of losing your home and then, in the same breath, losing the very means by which you support your family. That's the unimaginable situation Dee finds herself in. Yet, she continues to shine and reaffirm hope and aloha to her community, even after sustaining such a catastrophic impact. Maui, as we know, is not an easy place to rebuild one’s life. The cost of living is steep, and even a short-term displacement can result in significant emotional, physical, and financial trauma. While the community is rallying together, it will take more than just words to help Dee and her family find their footing again. A huge thank you to our partner, Quality Trailers Inc. of Portland who have graciously discounted the cost of the food trailer to help the cause! To meet Dee and her Family you can watch the full length video here.
Mahalo (Thank You),
CSG and Quality Trailers Inc.
Update: April 2024:
Dee’s Poi Mochi Update: With her trailer now wrapped and business doing well, Dee celebrated the grand opening of their new home at Maika’I Market in Maui last month. She is surrounded by a loving group of fellow truck owners impacted by the tragic Lahaina fires. A lot of hard work went into getting to this point, but it is still a tough and emotional time.