Mālama Kauaʻi invites community to seed, plant exchange and Swap Not Shop clothing event

Many families are feeling the strain of increasing food costs and economic uncertainty, so community-based solutions matter now more than ever.

Mālama Kauaʻi wants to help.

Community members are invited this weekend to two events Saturday, June 13, during its Food Access Summit and Mutual Aid Fair — a day rooted in mutual aid, resource sharing and strengthening local resilience.

Whether you’re looking to stretch your grocery budget with free seeds and plants, refresh your wardrobe through a community clothing swap or more, everyone is encouraged to attend from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Kaua‘i Philippine Cultural Center, located at 4475f Nūhou St, in Līhuʻe.

Seed and Plant Exchange

Kaua‘i Master Gardeners Seed and Plant Exchange begins at 10 a.m. for anyone who wants to bring plants, seeds or cuttings to donate. They can be dropped off until noon.

Plant donations

Plants will not be accepted if they have:

• Any type of damage, discoloration, leaf spots, etc.
• Any insects, larvae, eggs or droppings.
• Any animals such as slugs or flies, etc.

Those who bring donations should write the name of the plant on a tag to be included.

Community members can shop for free — and grab some goodies — from noon to 2 p.m.

Anyone who wants their plant back if it is not selected can stop back at 2 p.m.

Swap Not Shop: A Clothing Exchange

Thrifty Gypsea and Mālama Kauaʻi clothing swap volunteers are organizing yet another opportunity to donate and shop clean, gently-used clothing for men, women and keiki.

Donations will be accepted beginning at 10 a.m., with shopping open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

All donations should be cleaned before being brought to the event. Ensure items have no rips, stains or broken elements.

Used socks or undergarments will be accepted.

No clothing donations will be accepted after 1 p.m., as they will not have time to be adopted.

Kauaʻi County has clothing recycling events if what you have is not acceptable for donation at this event.

Community members are encouraged to bring a shopping bag — or five or 10 — to shop free during the afternoon; no donation necessary.

More volunteers also are always needed to help keep the area neat and organized by size, so check in and lend a hand if you’re able.

Get additional information about the Seed and Plant Exchange and Swap Not Shop clothing exchange, as well as other activities happening during the Food Access Summit and Mutual Aid Fair by visiting the Mālama Kauaʻi website or calling 808-828-0685, extension 6.