Hilo, Hawai‘i · 501(c)(3) Public Charity · EIN 39-2930549
Helping Hawai‘i Families Thrive with Food, Essential Resources & Educational Support
COTA Foundation supports Hawai‘i families facing food insecurity, financial hardship, and limited access to essential resources through community programs and direct support.
How We Create Change
01
Identify families facing immediate challenges
02
Provide essential resources and support
03
Build community partnerships
04
Create pathways toward long-term stability
Building Stronger Communities Across Hawai‘i
Founded by Shaunna Cota, COTA Foundation brings people together to support families facing hardship on Hawai‘i Island. Through essential resources, educational support, and community partnerships, we work to help families build stability and a stronger future.
ABOUT USOur Mission
Our mission is to empower Hawai‘i families by providing food, clothing, hygiene supplies, household essentials, educational assistance, and scholarship opportunities that promote stability, independence, and long-term success.
Our Vision
A Hawai‘i where every individual and family has access to the resources, opportunities, and support needed to build a healthier, stronger future.
Our Goal
In plain terms, here is what that mission means day to day.
COTA Foundation gives families on Hawai‘i Island the things they cannot afford in a hard month: hot meals, clothing, hygiene kits, household essentials, baby supplies and school supplies. We also pay education costs through our scholarship program, so a school expense does not stop a student from continuing.
We work across Hawai‘i Island and our office is at 176 Mamo St, Hilo, HI 96720. There is no membership, no fee, and no requirement to hold any particular belief. Call (772) 212-0788 or email cotafoundation9@gmail.com and a team member will tell you what we can provide.
Who we help
Families and individuals on Hawai‘i Island facing food insecurity or financial hardship.
What we give
Meals, clothing, hygiene kits, household and baby supplies, school supplies, and scholarship assistance.
How to ask
Call (772) 212-0788 or email cotafoundation9@gmail.com.
You Can Help Lots of People by Donating Little
Community Essentials Program
Supporting families through immediate assistance including nutritious meals, clothing, hygiene supplies, household essentials, baby supplies, and school resources.
- Hot Meals
- Clothing Assistance
- Hygiene Kits
- Household Essentials
Scholarship & Family Support
Our scholarship program helps students and families overcome financial barriers by providing educational assistance and emergency support.
- Educational Scholarships
- Family Assistance Scholarships
- Emergency Education Funding
- School Supplies
- Student Support Resources
What We Did This Year
From 11 to 18 July 2026 we ran a youth camping trip at Spencer's Beach Park. In August, after Hurricane Lala, Hilo Coast United Church of Christ donated sweaters, shoes, shirts, socks, jackets and hygiene items, and we handed them out to people experiencing homelessness and anyone else in need.
We also held our first community Bible study at Onekahakaha Beach Park in Hilo, where four women came and received notebooks and study items.
Why COTA Foundation Exists
COTA Foundation was created because many families in our community face challenges accessing essential resources, education support, and basic needs assistance. We believe strong communities are built when people have the support they need to thrive.
Have Questions? We Have Answers.
Find answers to the most common questions about the COTA Foundation, including donations, volunteering, partnerships, scholarships, and the community programs we provide across Hawai‘i.
Are donations to COTA Foundation tax-deductible?
Yes. COTA Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. Volunteers are always welcome to help with meal distribution, donation drives, community outreach, and special events.
What items can I donate?
Food, clothing, hygiene products, baby supplies, school supplies, household goods, and financial contributions are greatly appreciated.
Where do you serve?
We proudly serve individuals and families throughout Hawai‘i.
How do I request assistance?
Call (772) 212-0788 or send us a message with your name, where you live on Hawai‘i Island, and what you need. Our team will explain what assistance is available.
How can my organization partner with COTA Foundation?
Contact us to discuss donations, volunteer opportunities, community outreach, or support for our programs.
Need Help, or Want to Help?
If you need assistance, call (772) 212-0788 and tell us your name, where you live on Hawai‘i Island, and what you need. If you want to give money, goods or time, the same number works.