HAWAIʻI LEGISLATORS GIVE BACK THROUGH EASTER BASKETS WITH ESSENTIALS FOR THOSE IN NEED

Honolulu, Hawaiʻi – The Hawaiʻi State Legislature, in partnership with the Women’s Legislative Caucus, came together today at the State Capitol to support local families through its Easter Basket Drive, an effort focused on providing essential items to community organizations serving vulnerable populations across the state.

Over the past month, House and Senate members, along with staff and volunteers, collected donations and assembled an assortment of baskets filled with everyday necessities. Each basket included items such as toiletries, towels, period products, laundry detergent, and snacks to help ease the burden on individuals and families in need.

The baskets were distributed to partner organizations, including the Domestic Violence Action Center, Institute for Human Services, Mohala Mai Women’s Prison Project, Parents & Children Together, and Salvation Army Hawai‘i. These organizations will then distribute the baskets directly to those they serve.

Adding to the spirit of the event, legislators continued a lighthearted tradition by nominating freshmen members to dress as the Easter Bunny and Easter Duck. This year, Representative Olds and Representative Gedeon took on the respective roles and helped lead the effort in delivering baskets to the vehicles of community service providers.

“This initiative is a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of our local families. I am grateful to be part of a collective effort that brings everyday necessities to our communities in need," stated Senate Vice President Michelle N. Kidani.

“Mahalo to everyone who contributed to this year’s Easter Basket Drive. These baskets may seem simple, but they carry a meaningful message that our communities are seen, supported, and not alone. For many families, especially those facing hardship, everyday essentials can be difficult to afford," said Senator Lynn DeCoite. "In light of the Kona Storm that impacted our islands over the past two weekends, these donations come at a particularly important time and will help support the organizations on the front lines responding to increased needs. By coming together in this way, we are helping to ease that burden while strengthening the network of care that uplifts our communities. I am proud to stand with my colleagues and our community partners in continuing this important effort to support Hawaiʻi’s families."

“I’m deeply grateful to the Women’s Legislative Caucus, our colleagues here at the Capitol, and the many community partners who come together each year to uplift women and children across Hawai‘i. Thanks to their commitment, these baskets are filled with practical and meaningful items that offer comfort and support to families facing hardship. As this tradition celebrates 27 years, its impact continues to grow—reminding us of what we can accomplish when our community stands together," said Minority Leader Lauren Matsumoto.

"The generosity and support shown by our colleagues in this annual effort truly makes a difference, and it is greatly appreciated. Seeing the direct impact of how these donations benefit our community highlights the importance of continuing to support local organizations and those they serve," said House Vice Speaker Linda Ichiyama.

The WLC is a formal, bipartisan, and bicameral caucus dedicated to advancing legislation that improves the lives of women, children, and families. The 2026 WLC Co-Conveners are Senators Michelle N. Kidani (D-18, Mililani Town, portion of Waipi‘o Gentry, Crestview, Waikele, portion of Waipahu, Village Park, Royal Kunia) and Lynn DeCoite (D-7, Hāna, East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka‘i, Lāna‘i, Kaho‘olawe and Molokini), and Representatives Linda Ichiyama (D-31, Salt Lake, Āliamanu, Makalapa, Pearl Harbor) and Lauren Matsumoto (D-38, Portions of Mililani and Waipio Acres, Mililani Mauka).

In the Hawaiʻi State Legislature, there are 23 women Representatives among the 51 members and 9 women Senators among the 25 members.

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