K’s Bento-Ya has been in business for almost 50 years. However, like many other small businesses, they have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and ask for support through purchases or GoFundMe donations to keep their shop alive for another generation.

Current owner Lance Hirata, along with his sister Susan Wai and a handful of employees, have been keeping K’s Bento-Ya open. They are in need of a new refrigerator, as well as funds to replenish supplies and support their employees.

Many Marauders have fond memories of K’s Bento. Waipahu High School student Julia Yacas says, “If you’re from Waipahu, you’ve probably never heard of a Lunchable because we have K’s Bento.”

Fellow student Willow Takahashi adds, “Almost everyone has K’s Bento for lunch on field trips! I always ask people for their fried tofu.”

Richelle Wai, the K’s Bento-Ya GoFundMe page organizer, says, “If we make our goal and exceed it we will be donating the excess money to other small mom and pop shops like ours who also need the help.” They hope to continue serving their community.

K’s Bento-Ya is located at 94-164 Awalau St #1 in Waipahu. Visit their GoFundMe page if you would like to make a donation.