Each month for the foreseeable future, we are collecting donations to send to charitable organizations and causes in the US. For 2020 and onwards, these highlighted organizations are ones that are centered around education and the fight against racism. It is clear that the specialty coffee industry, and society as a whole, have much to address regarding this long-standing issue. And a way to start is to contribute to those groups that are knowledgeable about action and teach those around them to unlearn racism.
For the month of October, we will be collecting for the "Help Lahaina get Caffeinated Again!" fundraiser. This will continue until the last day of the month.
In early August 2023, a series of devastating wildfires broke out in Hawaii. The fires predominantly affected the island of Maui. They destroyed much of the Lahaina area and drastically affected the community there. The GoFundMe is organized by small local business owner Christina Pundyke. The page was set up to help "Lahaina's coffee business community get back on their feet."
To donate, you can select the amount you wish to contribute as an add-on for your product purchases. Acaia will publicly provide proof of donations when they are sent to the organization.
In their own words:
"Aloha, my name is Christina Pundyke and I am the owner of Albas Cuban Coladas. Yesterday we experienced devastating fires that ravaged several parts of the island, but specifically, Lahaina. Many have lost their lives, their homes, and their businesses.
As a small business owner, I know how important it is to support family-owned establishments. They are the heart and soul of any city, town, or in this case, our beautiful little island of Maui. Hundreds of them were lost in the fire, and we wish we could name them all. BUT for now, we will focus on what we know best, and that is coffee! Let’s do a small part in helping Lahaina's coffee business community get back on their feet."