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SNAP Outreach

Health & Nutrition

Food Security Services

We understand that the recent announcement about the temporary halt of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) starting November 1, 2025, may bring stress and uncertainty for many local families. Please know that you are not alone. Helping Hands Hawai‘i is here to support you through this.

We are preparing for an increased need across our community and are working diligently to adjust our services so we can continue providing food, basic necessities and compassionate support to those who need it most.

We encourage you to:

  • Use your remaining SNAP benefits thoughtfully and check your EBT balance regularly.
  • Reach out to your local food bank, pantry or community program if you need immediate food assistance. Hawaiʻi Foodbank is hosting additional food distribution events during this time.
  • Complete your DHS recertifications or interviews to stay current with your benefits.
  • Follow updates directly from DHS or USDA for accurate, timely information.

 

The new Hawai‘i Relief Program also offers short-term assistance for eligible families with dependent children and can help with housing and utility payments to ease the burden during the federal government shutdown.

To apply, please visit: www.catholiccharitieshawaii.org/hawaii_relief_program/
More information about the State’s coordinated relief efforts can be found online.

We know this situation is difficult, but we remain steadfast in our mission to uplift our community with care and compassion. For more than 50 years, we’ve been here for Hawaii’s families, and we’ll continue to be here for you now.

If you need help, please reach out. Visit helpinghandshawaii.org or contact snapoutreach@helpinghandshawaii.org to find food, household or financial assistance near you.

For more than 12 years, Helping Hands Hawai‘i’s SNAP Outreach Program has been making a difference across Oahu—one household at a time. Whether at community centers, neighborhood events, over the phone, or in our agency offices, our dedicated outreach specialists meet people where they are to make sure no one goes hungry in silence.

SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, plays a vital role in helping local individuals and families access healthy food. Yet, navigating the application process can feel overwhelming, especially during challenging times. That’s where our team steps in, offering more than just paperwork assistance. We provide compassionate, one-on-one support to complete and submit applications, track their progress, and help maintain benefits once approved. We also make sure people understand their eligibility and options without confusion or intimidation.

Beyond the one-on-one support, we’re out in the community educating residents about nutrition and available resources. It’s not just about getting food on the table—it’s about strengthening health, dignity, and opportunity.

At Helping Hands Hawai‘i, we believe everyone deserves access to life’s basic necessities. Through our SNAP Outreach Program, we’re proud to be a lifeline for those who need it most.

For more information or to get involved, contact snapoutreach@helpinghandshawaii.org or call (808) 536-7234 ext. 832.