Hawai‘i Police Department Holding “Fill a Police Cruiser” Kokua Events in Kona and Hilo August 20 to Support Hurricane Lala Recovery Efforts

In response to the extraordinary challenges facing the community following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Lala, the Hawai‘i Police Department will hold three “Fill a Cruiser” Kokua events in Kona and Hilo on Thursday, August 20, 2026. The department’s Kona and Hilo community policing sections are partnering with local businesses and community organizations to collect essential supplies for individuals and families affected by the hurricane.

In Kailua-Kona, the Kona Community Policing Section is partnering with Kona Costco, Kona Walmart, The Food Basket (Hawai‘i Island’s Food Bank), Friends of First Responders, and KAPA Radio personality Tommy Ching to host two “Fill a Cruiser” events simultaneously from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the entrances of the following stores:

• Kona Costco, 73-5600 Maiau Street
• Kona Walmart,  75-1015 Henry Street

In Hilo, the Hilo Community Policing Section is partnering with Safeway Hilo, the Food Basket, and Vibrant Hawaii. The “Fill a Cruiser” event will be held from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at:

• Hilo Safeway, 381 E. Maka‘ala Street

A blue-and-white marked police cruiser will be stationed at each location. Community members are encouraged to donate food, water, and basic living necessities, including diapers, infant formula, and personal hygiene products with the goal of filling the police cruisers to capacity with much-needed supplies.

All donated items and monetary contributions will be distributed by the Food Basket to individuals and families in need throughout Hawai‘i Island.

The Hawai‘i Police Department and its community partners encourage everyone to participate in this meaningful event. Your kōkua and generosity will make a significant difference in the lives of many individuals and families across our island.

For more information on the Kona events, please contact Officer Dwayne Sluss of the Kona Community Policing Section at 808-326-4646 ext. 3259 or via email at dwayne.sluss@hawaiipolice.gov.

For information about the Hilo event, please contact Hilo Community Policing Officer Christopher Barto, at (808) 961-8849 or by email at Christopher.barto@hawaiipolice.gov.