DOW partners with KEO’s meal delivery programs
Published on May 30, 2025
LĪHUʻE – In advance of the 2025 hurricane season, the Department of Water (DOW) has partnered with Kauai Economic Opportunity Inc. (KEO) to encourage water emergency preparedness through programs for Meals on Wheels, Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing. During May, participants of these programs each received a complimentary 20-liter water storage container with their meal delivery.
“The water storage containers were delivered through our Meals on Wheels program to approximately 140 homebound kupuna and 100 kupuna at our congregate meal sites,” said Naomi Ikimaka, Deputy Director at Kauai Economic Opportunity Inc. “Drivers handled distribution during regular meal deliveries to seniors who meet regularly at Līhuʻe Neighborhood Center, Kekaha Neighborhood Center, Waimea Neighborhood Center, Kanikoʻo Senior Housing and Kauaʻi Adult Day Care. Our Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing clients also benefited from DOWʻs generous donation.”
Storing water is important for all residents. For the elderly, water emergency preparedness is especially critical, as many rely on others for assistance due to health conditions and/or mobility limitations. During an emergency, this assistance may not be readily available.
“This joint effort by DOW and KEO will assist Kauai’s elderly, homebound residents who are particularly vulnerable during natural disaster emergencies,” said Joe Tait, DOWʻs Manager and Chief Engineer. “A readily available water supply ensures that they will be able to meet their basic needs during potential disruptions to water services.”
How to Store Water:
- Store enough water for you and your family (including your pets). It is recommended that you store at least 1 gallon of water per person, per day (for drinking and sanitation) for 3 days. Try to store for 14 days, if possible. Family members with medical needs may require more.
- Use containers designed specifically for water storage, such as FDA-approved food-grade water storage containers. Do not use containers that previously held food with strong odors as the water will pick up the odor during storage.
- Disinfect containers with a solution made by mixing 1 teaspoon of unscented liquid household chlorine bleach in 1 quart (4 cups) of water. Use bleach that contains 5%-9% sodium hypochlorite. Cover the container tightly and shake it, ensuring that all interior surfaces are disinfected. Wait 30 seconds and pour the sanitizing solution out. Let the container air-dry before use.
- Fill container with water from the tap. Keep a minimal amount of air between the water and the cap. Optional: Boil water for 1-3 minutes prior to storing it. Let the water stand until it cools down, and then fill the containers.
- Store water containers in a cool, dark place.
- Replace water every six months .
DOW will be giving away complimentary, 20-liter water storage containers at their Līhuʻe office on June 6, from 8 to 11 a.m., while supplies last.
For more information or questions, please contact the Department of Water at 808-245-5455.
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