Farm to Mother
Frequently Asked Questions

Who does Farm to Mother Maui serve?

Our primary focus is supporting pregnant people, postpartum families, and households with young children throughout Maui.

When resources are available, we also serve:

Kūpuna (elders) needing additional nutrition support.
Families referred by healthcare providers and community organizations.
Families navigating unexpected hardships or life transitions.
Community members connected through our partner organizations.

We believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.

Why is local and culturally relevant food so important?

Food is more than nutrition—it is culture, identity, healing, and belonging.

Whenever possible, we prioritize fresh produce and culturally relevant foods that reflect the diverse traditions of Hawaiʻi. Familiar foods help families feel connected to their heritage, strengthen cultural identity, and encourage lifelong healthy eating habits.

We are also deeply committed to supporting Maui’s local farmers and food producers. Purchasing locally grown food keeps resources circulating within our island economy, strengthens food security, reduces our dependence on imported food, and builds a healthier, more resilient community for everyone.

Supporting local agriculture means supporting local families.

Why do you ask about household income?

Some of the food distributed through Farm to Mother is provided through partnerships with the Maui Food Bank and USDA-supported nutrition programs.

As a participating partner, Pacific Birth Collective is required to collect standardized demographic information—including household size and income—for every household that registers. These questions are required by our funding and food distribution partners and are not created by Pacific Birth Collective.

Collecting this information helps ensure compliance with federal and state reporting requirements while helping us better understand the needs of our community.

Does everyone receive USDA food?

Not necessarily.

Farm to Mother is supported through multiple funding sources.

Some food is distributed according to USDA and Maui Food Bank eligibility requirements, while other food, produce, wellness services, educational opportunities, and community resources are funded through grants, donations, local partnerships, and Pacific Birth Collective initiatives.

Because our programs have different funding sources and eligibility guidelines, not every participant receives the same resources.

Why do you ask questions about mental and emotional well-being?

Because nourishing families means caring for the whole person.

Pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, caregiving, grief, stress, anxiety, and social isolation can affect anyone, regardless of income.

Food is often the first connection families make with Pacific Birth Collective. Through optional wellness questions, we can better understand each family’s needs and connect them with additional support, including:

Childbirth and parenting education
Breastfeeding support
Mental and emotional wellness resources
Peer support groups
Community events
Healthcare referrals
Other Pacific Birth Collective programs

Sometimes a food box becomes the beginning of a relationship that supports a family for years.

Why do you collect demographic information?

The information families choose to share helps us:

Meet USDA and Maui Food Bank reporting requirements.
Better understand the health needs of Maui families.
Improve existing programs.
Identify gaps in maternal and family health.
Develop new services based on community needs.
Demonstrate impact to grant funders.
Secure future funding so programs remain free or low-cost for our community.

How your information will be used and stored

The information you provide as part of this program will be collected, maintained, and stored securely by Pacific Birth Collective using reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards designed to protect your privacy and confidentiality. Access to identifiable information will be limited to authorized personnel who require it to perform their responsibilities. Whenever feasible, identifying information will be removed or replaced with a unique participant code before data are analyzed or shared.

The information you provide may be used for a variety of organizational, research, administrative, operational, quality improvement, and evaluation purposes, including, but not limited to, assessing program outcomes; monitoring and improving services; meeting reporting and compliance requirements; preparing reports for grant funders, sponsors, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders; and conducting statistical analyses. Aggregated and/or de-identified data may be used to summarize participant characteristics, report overall findings, support funding applications and grant reporting, and contribute to presentations, scientific publications, and future research. No information that could reasonably identify you will be included in public reports or publications without your additional permission, unless required by law.

Your information will be retained in accordance with applicable laws, institutional policies, and organizational record-retention requirements and will be used only for the purposes described in this consent or as otherwise permitted by law.

Why is nutrition such an important part of your mission?

Nutrition is one of the foundations of lifelong health.

Healthy food supports pregnancy, postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, infant development, chronic disease prevention, mental well-being, and overall family health.

We believe that food, healthcare, education, emotional wellness, and community connection all work together to create healthier families and stronger communities.

Can I support this program if my family doesn’t need food assistance?

Yes.

Many members of our community choose to support Farm to Mother by making a tax-deductible donation, volunteering, sponsoring a family, donating fresh produce, or partnering with Pacific Birth Collective.

Community support allows us to continue expanding access to nutritious food, education, mental health resources, and family wellness programs across Maui.

Every contribution helps strengthen the circle of care.

Our Commitment

Pacific Birth Collective believes that every family deserves to feel nourished, supported, and connected.

Through partnerships with the Maui Food Bank, USDA programs, local farmers, healthcare providers, community organizations, and generous donors, we are building a healthier Maui—one where nutrition, cultural connection, mental wellness, education, and community all work together.

Food is often the first step. Relationship is what sustains lasting wellness.

1

SIGN UP

Create an account for an PBC or login. To access PBC services, please create a profile or log in.

2

RESERVE A BOX

3

PICK UP & ENJOY

Pick-up locations and times vary. Please see details when you register.

Our Commitment to Dignity and Accountability

At Pacific Birth Collective, we believe every family deserves to be treated with dignity and respect during pregnancy and the postpartum period. We recognize that financial circumstances can influence access to healthy food and support, which is why our registration includes a self-reported household income question. This information helps us understand who we are serving, meet grant reporting requirements, and evaluate whether we are reaching the populations our funders intend to support.

At the same time, we recognize that income alone does not tell the whole story. Families may experience significant financial strain due to medical expenses, housing costs, caregiving responsibilities, recent job changes, disaster recovery, or other circumstances that are not reflected by a single number.

For that reason, we rely on self-reported information and do not require participants to submit tax returns, pay stubs, or other financial documentation. We believe reducing barriers to care and preserving participants' dignity are essential to creating a welcoming and accessible program.

THIS PROGRAM IS FREE AND ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE

If our scheduled pick up times and locations make our program inaccessible to you, please contact us at kokua@pacificbirthcollective.org to request an accommodation.

For more information on the program, please see our FAQ.

Registration opens the Saturday prior to pick-up

Food Benefits and Recipe Inspiration

Pohole Fern

Benefits

Iron: Helps prevent or combat iron-deficiency anemia, which is common during pregnancy and postpartum.
Calcium: Supports bone health for mom and developing baby.
Vitamin A & C: Boosts immune function and supports tissue repair—important during postpartum recovery.
Folate (possibly): Crucial for fetal neural development. While not always lab-tested in pōhōle, ferns in this category often contain some folate.
Pōhōle is a good source of dietary fiber, helping to:
Reduce constipation—a common concern in pregnancy.
Promote healthy gut flora, which can influence immune function and mood (including postpartum mental health).
Traditionally used in some cultures for reducing inflammation and aiding wound healing, which may help with:
Postpartum tissue recovery
Managing swelling or aches common in late pregnancy
It’s light, hydrating, and easy to digest, making it an ideal addition to soups or salads during:
Nausea-prone early pregnancy
Postpartum weeks when appetite and digestion are sensitive
Contains antioxidants, which help the body manage oxidative stress during pregnancy and the postpartum healing period.

Pohole Fern Recipes

Pohole Salad

Lion's Mane Mushroom

Brain Health: Lion’s mane is known for its neuroprotective properties, supporting brain function and cognitive health. During pregnancy, it can help maintain mental clarity and focus, and postpartum, it may support memory and mood stability.
Immune Support: Rich in antioxidants, lion’s mane mushrooms help boost the immune system, which is crucial for both mother and baby during and after pregnancy.
Protein: Lion's mane contains a moderate amount of protein, supporting tissue repair during postpartum recovery and providing essential building blocks for growth during pregnancy.
Anti-Inflammatory: It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial during recovery from childbirth and supporting overall health during pregnancy.
Gut Health: Lion’s mane supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy digestive system, which can be especially helpful in managing digestive issues like constipation, common during pregnancy and postpartum.
Nerve Regeneration: Known for its potential to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production, lion’s mane supports nerve regeneration and recovery, which could help in postpartum healing, particularly for those recovering from complications like nerve damage or injury during childbirth.

Lion's Mane Mushroom Recipes

Teriyaki Mushroom Steak

Oyster Mushroom

Benefits

Protein: Oyster mushrooms provide a good amount of plant-based protein, which is crucial for fetal growth and tissue repair after childbirth. Protein also supports milk production during lactation.
B Vitamins: Rich in B vitamins like B5 (pantothenic acid) and B9 (folate), oyster mushrooms support energy levels, help with nervous system function, and are vital for fetal development, particularly for brain growth and neural tube formation.
Iron: Oyster mushrooms are a source of non-heme iron, which is important for preventing anemia during pregnancy and supporting postpartum recovery and energy levels.
Vitamin D: Oyster mushrooms are one of the few plant-based sources of vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function for both the mother and baby.
Antioxidants: They contain antioxidants, such as ergothioneine, which help reduce oxidative stress, support immune function, and protect cells from damage during pregnancy and recovery.
Fiber: High in fiber, oyster mushrooms support healthy digestion and prevent constipation, a common issue during pregnancy and postpartum.
Minerals: Oyster mushrooms provide important minerals like potassium and copper, which support heart health, proper fluid balance, and overall body function.

Oyster Mushroom Recipes

Oyster Mushroom Soup

Tempeh

Benefits

Protein-Rich: Tempeh is a great source of plant-based protein, essential for fetal growth during pregnancy and for healing and milk production postpartum.
Calcium: Tempeh is rich in calcium, which is vital for developing the baby’s bones and teeth during pregnancy. It also helps with bone health for the mother postpartum
Probiotics: As a fermented food, tempeh contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health, which can aid digestion and boost immunity during and after pregnancy.
Iron: It contains iron, which helps prevent anemia—a common concern during pregnancy. Iron supports the body's increased blood volume and is important for postpartum recovery.

Tempeh Recipes

Tempeh Stir Fry

Kabocha Squash

Benefits

Rich in Complex Carbohydrates: Kabocha squash provides complex carbohydrates that offer sustained energy, which is essential during pregnancy and the postpartum period when energy demands are higher.
High in Antioxidants: Kabocha squash is packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C, which help protect both the mother and the baby’s cells from oxidative stress, supporting overall health and reducing inflammation.
Low-Calorie, Nutrient-Dense Food: Despite being low in calories, kabocha squash is nutrient-dense, making it a great option for maintaining a healthy weight while ensuring adequate nutrient intake during pregnancy.

Kabocha Squash Recipes

Squash Congee

13 Easy Recipes

Butternut Squash

Benefits

Rich in Vitamin A: Butternut squash is high in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is crucial for the baby's growth and development, particularly for their vision, immune function, and organ development.
Good Source of Folate: Butternut squash contains folate, which is vital during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects and support the healthy development of the baby's brain and spinal cord.
High in Potassium: Butternut squash is rich in potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, reduces the risk of hypertension during pregnancy, and supports proper fluid balance and muscle function.

Butternut Squash Recipes

Roasted Butternut Squash

Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut Squash Soup

Papaya

Benefits

Immune Boost- Ripe papaya is rich in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system, protecting both the mother and baby from infections.
Digestive Aid- The high fiber content and natural enzymes in ripe papaya support healthy digestion and prevent constipation, a frequent concern during pregnancy.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties- Ripe papaya contains antioxidants like beta-carotene and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory effects and can help reduce swelling and discomfort during the perinatal period
Lactation Support- Green papaya is believed to help increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers due to its lactogenic properties.
Rich in Enzymes- The enzymes in green papaya, such as papain, aid in digestion and can help alleviate digestive discomfort and constipation, common during pregnancy and postpartum.
Nutrient Density- Green papaya provides essential vitamins (like vitamin C and folate) and minerals (such as potassium), which support maternal health and fetal development

Note: : It is important for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider before consuming papaya, particularly green papaya, as it may contain latex that can induce uterine contractions.

Papaya Recipes

Papaya with Yogurt

Jackfruit (canned)

Many folks in Hawaii are familiar with ripe jackfruit, which is a large, nutritious tropical fruit (that tastes like Juicy Fruit!). Canned, unripe canned jackfruit is another way of eating the fruit. It's savory, not sweet, and is often used in vegan and vegetarian recipes, such as shredded BBQ tacos, sandwiches, and curries.

Benefits

Nutrient-Rich Support: Jackfruit provides essential vitamins (such as vitamin C, A, and B vitamins) and minerals (like potassium and magnesium), which support maternal health and fetal development during pregnancy.
Digestive Health: The high fiber content in jackfruit aids digestion, helping to prevent constipation, a common issue during pregnancy, and promoting a healthy gut for the mother.
Antioxidant Protection: Jackfruit's antioxidants, such as carotenoids and flavonoids, help protect both the mother and developing baby from oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting overall health during the perinatal period.

Jackfruit Recipes

Plant-based Taco Meat

Watercress

Benefits

Rich in Nutrients- Watercress is packed with vitamins and minerals. It's particularly high in vitamins K, A, and C, which are essential for bone health, vision, immune function, and skin health.
High in Antioxidants- This leafy green contains a variety of antioxidants, including beta-carotene and lutein, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports Heart Health-Watercress contains compounds that can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve blood vessel function, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.

Watercress Recipes

Pork Tofu & Watercress

Sauteed Watercress

Watercress Pesto

Oats

Benefits

Rich in Nutrients: Oats are a great source of essential vitamins (such as B vitamins) and minerals (including iron, magnesium, and zinc), which support both maternal health and fetal development.
Energy Boost: The complex carbohydrates in oats provide a steady release of energy, helping to keep expectant and new mothers energized throughout the day.
Digestive Health: High in dietary fiber, oats help maintain healthy digestion and can prevent constipation, a common issue during pregnancy and postpartum.
Lactation Support: Oats are believed to help increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers due to their high levels of beta-glucans.
Blood Sugar Regulation: The soluble fiber in oats helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is particularly beneficial for preventing gestational diabetes and maintaining overall metabolic health.

Oat Recipes

Granola

Overnight Oats

Barley

Benefits

Nutrient-Rich: Barley is high in essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins (B vitamins), and minerals (iron, magnesium), which help support overall health and recovery after childbirth.
Lactation Support: Barley contains beta-glucans, which are believed to help increase prolactin levels, a hormone that promotes milk production in breastfeeding mothers.
Digestive Health: The high fiber content in barley aids digestion and can help prevent constipation, a common issue for postpartum women.
Energy Boost: Barley provides a steady release of energy due to its complex carbohydrates, helping new mothers stay energized throughout the day.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Barley has anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce postpartum swelling and promote quicker healing.

Barley Recipes

Mushroom & Barley Soup

18 Recipes for Barley

Beets

Benefits

Rich in Folate: Beets are high in folate, a crucial B-vitamin for pregnancy. Folate helps prevent neural tube defects in the developing baby and supports healthy cell growth and function.
Iron Content: Beets are a good source of iron, which is essential for preventing anemia during pregnancy. Iron supports the increased blood volume and the baby's growth.
Blood Pressure Regulation: Beets contain nitrates, which can help lower blood pressure. Maintaining healthy blood pressure during pregnancy is important for reducing the risk of complications such as preeclampsia.

Beet Recipes

Roasted Beets

Beet Hummus

Borscht

Zucchini

Benefits

Low in Calories, High in Nutrients: Zucchini is low in calories but rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, which support the immune system, skin health, and overall fetal development.
High in Folate: Zucchini provides a good amount of folate, which is crucial during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects and support healthy cell division and growth in the developing baby.
Rich in Dietary Fiber: Zucchini is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, helps prevent constipation, and supports overall gut health—a common concern during pregnancy.

Zucchini Recipes

17 Easy Zucchini Recipes

Sardines

Benefits

High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, which is essential for the baby’s brain and eye development. Omega-3s also help reduce inflammation and support the mother’s mental health, potentially lowering the risk of postpartum depression.
Excellent Source of Protein: Sardines provide high-quality protein, which is crucial for the growth and repair of tissues, including the development of the baby’s muscles, organs, and immune system.
Rich in Calcium and Vitamin D: Sardines are a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for building strong bones and teeth in both the mother and baby. These nutrients also support the mother’s bone health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life.
Low in Mercury: Sardines are low on the food chain, which means they contain lower levels of mercury compared to larger fish like tuna. This makes them a safer choice for pregnant women who need to avoid high mercury exposure.

Sardines Recipes

20 Sardine Recipes

Ginger / Awapuhi

Reduces Nausea and Morning Sickness: Ginger is well-known for its ability to alleviate nausea, which is particularly helpful for managing morning sickness during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Ginger contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation and discomfort, which is beneficial for both the mother’s overall well-being and the body’s ability to manage pregnancy-related aches and pains.
Supports Digestion: Ginger aids in digestion by promoting healthy gastric motility and reducing indigestion or bloating, which are common issues during pregnancy.

Ginger Recipes

Ginger Tea

Ginger Stir Fry

Green Papaya

Contains Digestive Enzymes: Green papaya contains papain, a protein-digesting enzyme, which can aid in gentle digestion, and is particularly helpful for postpartum recovery when appetite or digestion may be sensitive. It also helps break down proteins in meals, making them easier to absorb — beneficial when nutrient absorption is critical.
Nutrient Rich: High in Vitamin C (~60% DV per cup) and Folate (~10% DV), plus potassium and magnesium.
- Vitamin C: supports immune function and wound healing postpartum.
- Folate is crucial during pregnancy for fetal neural development and continues to support maternal cell recovery after birth.
- Potassium & magnesium can help with muscle function, blood pressure regulation, and energy metabolism, supporting both pregnancy and breastfeeding needs.
High in Fiber: Helps prevent constipation, a common issue in pregnancy and postpartum, while supporting healthy digestion.

Green Papaya Recipes

Green Papaya Salad

Chicken Papaya

Farm to Mother Frequently Asked Questions

Who does Farm to Mother Maui serve?

Why is local and culturally relevant food so important?

Why do you ask about household income?

Does everyone receive USDA food?

Why do you ask questions about mental and emotional well-being?

Why do you collect demographic information?

Why is nutrition such an important part of your mission?

Can I support this program if my family doesn’t need food assistance?

Our Commitment

1

SIGN UP

2

RESERVE A BOX

3

PICK UP & ENJOY

Our Commitment to Dignity and Accountability

THIS PROGRAM IS FREE AND ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE

Register for a Farm to Mother Box

Registration opens the Saturday prior to pick-up

Food Benefits and Recipe Inspiration

Pohole Fern

Pohole Fern Recipes

Farm to Mother
Frequently Asked Questions