HONOLULU (KHON2) — Starting on Monday, Nov. 10, applications will be open for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Emergency Assistance Program.
The $1.6 million assistance program is to support Native Hawaiian beneficiaries who have been affected by the ongoing government shutdown and disruption of SNAP benefits.
“We are grateful to OHA for entrusting us with this responsibility and are moving quickly to
ensure kōkua reaches those who need it most — our kūpuna, working families, and federal
workers facing hardship,” said Kūhiō Lewis, CEO of the Hawaiian Council. “Our lāhui continues
to face real hardship, and together we are demonstrating what it means to care for our people
with compassion, accountability, and unity.”
How to Apply
Starting Monday, Nov. 10, at 9 a.m., eligible applicants are encouraged to submit their applications.
- Online applications can be submitted here.
- Apply over the phone by calling the Hawaiian Council at 808-596-8155. The call center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Head to 91-1270 Kinoiki St. in Kapolei to apply in person. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Required Documents
When applying, you must present these documents:
- Proof of Native Hawaiian ancestry, such as an OHA Hawaiian Registry Program card, birth certificate, or other documentation.
- Government-issued ID that shows Hawaiʻi residency.
- Benefits verification letter from SNAP recipients.
- Official letter or statement from your federal agency of furlough notice or leave and income statement.
Relief Amounts and Eligibility
Once your application is approved, you could receive these one-time relief amounts:
- Local grocery store gift card up to $350 for those who have been verified Native Hawaiian, receive SNAP benefits, have no dependents and are not eligible for the state’s Hawaiʻi Relief Program.
- Checks for up to $1,200 to verified Native Hawaiian, non-military employees who have been furloughed or have not received pay due to the shutdown. Earnings must be no more than 400% above the Federal Poverty Level.
Applicants can expect to see distribution as soon as Nov. 11, with each application being reviewed as they get received.