Aloha ‘Ohana: Important Update on Federal Support & Community Resources

As our Hawaii communities continue to feel the effects of the federal government shutdown, we recognize that many of our keiki are being raised and nurtured by their kūpuna – grandparents who serve as primary caregivers or legal guardians. With the potential suspension of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits starting November 1, many of our families may face even greater hardship.

We want to ensure that our ‘ohana knows about available support:

• Free or Reduced-Price School Meals: Families may qualify through the Hawaii Department of Education. This can help ensure keiki continue to receive nutritious meals at school.
• Community Resources: We’ve compiled a list of local programs and services,  including those recently featured in the Honolulu Civil Beat,  to help families navigate this time.
• Support from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs: Additional culturally grounded resources are available to support Native Hawaiian families and caregivers.

OHA Sets Aside $6.1 Million for Emergency Relief to Protect Native Hawaiian Families Amid Federal Shutdown – The Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA)

Please see the attached flyers below. for more information and direct access to these resources.

Also see DHS website with more info on SNAP benefits and terminations and recertifications: https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/

Together, we can uplift our keiki and kūpuna through aloha, resilience and community care.