The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees has formally approved up to $6.1 million in emergency funding to support Native Hawaiian beneficiaries affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The plan, approved Thursday during the board’s meeting in Hilo, will provide direct financial assistance to nearly 15,000 beneficiaries struggling to afford food and other essentials.
“When our people need help the most, OHA will be there for them,” OHA Board Chair Kaiali’i Kahele said. “We look to provide money to nearly 15,000 of our most vulnerable beneficiaries with the $6.1 million we’ve set aside to address this emergency so that they can buy food and pay for other essential household needs.”
Under the plan, OHA will distribute payments of up to $350 to kupuna aged 60 and older, low-income adults and disabled beneficiaries who receive SNAP benefits but are excluded from the state’s Hawaii Relief Program. Native Hawaiian federal civilian workers who are classified as furloughed, excepted or essential and earn no more than 400% of the federal poverty level will be eligible for payments of up to $1,200.
“We believe we’re targeting two groups of our beneficiaries who might otherwise be inadequately served or fall through the cracks of other relief programs,” OHA Interim CEO Summer Sylva said. “When Hawaiians help Hawaiians, our aloha and pilina (relationship) deepen. By caring for those most in need, we strengthen our lahui (community) for this moment — and for all that lies ahead.”
OHA will partner with the Hawaiian Council to administer the program. Applications will open Monday with the council overseeing intake and verification.
Eligible beneficiaries will receive either $350 gift cards for SNAP households or $1,200 checks for furloughed workers. The program is intended to offer immediate relief to help Native Hawaiian households pay for food, housing, and other essential expenses during the shutdown.
Source: The Garden Island
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