The spirit of community was on full display at Pukalani Stables as the Paniolo Preservation Society hosted a successful Community Yard Sale focused on giving back to local families and creating opportunities for West Hawaiʻi’s keiki.
Two Markets, One Shared Vision
Organized by Nichole Keenan, owner of ʻĀina Candles, and Elly Matos, owner of Hula Hands Soaps & Jellies, the event brought together vendors and supporters from both the Pukalani Midweek Market, held every Wednesday, and the Kamuela Farmers Market on Saturdays. Their shared vision transformed a simple yard sale into a meaningful community fundraiser with lasting impact.
Raising Funds for Keiki Activities
The primary goal of the event was to raise funds for the children’s activities offered during the Pukalani Midweek Market. These activities have become a favorite part of the weekly market, providing free entertainment and hands-on experiences for local families. Proceeds from the yard sale will help ensure these activities remain free and accessible for everyone, reinforcing the market’s commitment to creating a welcoming space where families can gather, learn, and connect.
A Clothing Drive for Foster Families
In addition to fundraising, the event also served as a clothing drive to support new foster families throughout the community. Organizers collected donations of children’s clothing to help establish an emergency clothing hub for foster parents who often receive children with little notice and limited belongings. The initiative aims to provide immediate access to essential clothing, helping ease the transition for both caregivers and children during a critical time.
“The strength of our community is measured by how we care for one another,” said the organizers. “Whether it’s creating memorable experiences for our keiki or helping foster families meet immediate needs, every donation and every purchase makes a difference.”
A Hallmark of Collaboration
The Community Yard Sale highlighted the collaborative spirit that has become a hallmark of both the Pukalani Midweek Market and the Kamuela Farmers Market. Local vendors, volunteers, and residents came together with a common purpose, demonstrating that small businesses can play a powerful role in supporting community causes beyond the marketplace.
The Paniolo Preservation Society continues to encourage community involvement through events that celebrate local culture, strengthen neighborhood connections, and provide meaningful support where it is needed most.
Looking Ahead
As the Pukalani Midweek Market continues to grow, organizers remain committed to offering free family-friendly programming while building partnerships that benefit the wider community. With the success of the Community Yard Sale, organizers hope to make similar fundraising and donation events a regular part of their mission to serve West Hawaiʻi’s families.
Get Involved
Community members interested in supporting future children’s activities or contributing to the foster family clothing hub are encouraged to connect with the Pukalani Midweek Market and its participating vendors for upcoming opportunities to get involved.
