MEDIA RELEASE

The Kona Hospital Foundation has won a $500 cash prize through the Pepsi and Foodland’s Give Aloha Sweepstakes.

The Give Aloha program began 12 years ago, and this is its first year collaborating with Pepsi to provide this drawing.

“The Kona Hospital Foundation’s mission is to provide the best health care possible through the Kona Community Hospital,” said Jim Higgins, chairman of the Kona Hospital Foundation. “It is amazing how even one person’s actions can make a difference. Thank you to Robert Marciel and this wonderful program for providing us with this gift. Every penny counts and this gift illustrates the incredible support that comes from our community.”

During September, Foodland customers were encouraged to visit the Pepsi display in any of the 32 Foodland stores statewide. In doing so, the entry form asked for the name of their favorite Hawaii non-profit organization.

A total of 20 entry forms were drawn when the program concluded, and the Kona Hospital Foundation was selected.

The Foundation is one of 20 recipients to receive this reward, and is one of eight organizations from the Big Island.

The others include AdvoCats, Friends of the Children Justice Center, Hawaii Food Basket, Hawaii Island United Way, Hawaii Wildlife Fund, Hui Pono Holoholona, and Keaau Youth Business Center.

Foodland customer, Robert Marciel of Hilo named the Kona Hospital Foundation as the organization he would like to have the monies go to. Through this endeavor, 20 Hawaii non-profit organizations will receive $500 each, totaling $10,000.

The Kona Hospital Foundation’s mission is to accept gifts and solicit donations for new medical technology, expanded services and enhanced facilities for Kona Community Hospital.

Since its inception, the Foundation has donated more than $5 million toward numerous projects that have improved the hospital. Major endeavors include the Radiation Oncology Center, Imaging Center, Nuclear Medicine Suite, and Outpatient Chemotherapy Building.

Many other projects to date include the emergency helicopter landing area, repair and painting of the facility, enhanced directional signage for visitors, medical equipment and education for hospital professionals.