News Release 10/30/2025: GOVERNOR GREEN ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL COORDINATED RELIEF EFFORTS TO PROTECT HAWAI‘I FAMILIES FROM FEDERAL SHUTDOWN IMPACTS

What is the Hawaiʻi Emergency Food Benefit?
The Hawaiʻi Emergency Food Benefit (HEFB) is a new state-sponsored food benefit that is separate from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit. HEFB will provide a benefit of $250 per person in a household. The HEFB will be restricted to purchase food and groceries at retail locations that accept Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards.

Is HEFB a SNAP benefit?
No. HEFB is a new state-sponsored food benefit, separate and distinct from SNAP. However, HEFB will utilize the same EBT mechanism as SNAP and will be used to purchase food and groceries at retail locations that accept EBT.

Do I need to apply for HEFB?
No. There is no application process for HEFB. Benefits will be automatically issued to eligible households through their EBT card. Specific eligibility details will be shared soon as the program details are finalized.

When will HEFB benefits be issued?
DHS anticipates HEFB benefits will be issued to eligible households in mid-November.

How do I learn more?
Further details regarding HEFB are still being finalized. As details are finalized, they will be posted on the DHS website at https://humanservices.hawaii.gov and shared through additional public announcements. Please continue to check the DHS website for updates over the coming weeks.

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• Aloha United Way 2-1-1 Aloha United Way is a SNAP outreach provider that maintains a database that can provide referrals to other helpful food resources in your community.
  • Statewide: 211

• Hawaiʻi Foodbank Hawaiʻi Foodbank works together with its network of food partner agencies to serve the needs of the community on Oʻahu and Kauaʻi.
  • Oʻahu: 808-836-3600
  • Kauaʻi: 808-482-2224

• Hawaii Island Food Basket The Food Basket is Hawaiʻi Island’s Food Bank. The website includes information on how to locate food resources, including food pantries and soup kitchens on Hawaiʻi island.
  • Hawaiʻi Island: 808-933-6030

• Maui Food Bank The mission of Maui Food Bank is to end hunger in Maui County. The Maui Food Bank distributes over 8 million pounds of food each year, including 2.3 million pounds of fresh produce.
  • Maui: 808-243-9500

• SNAP Outreach Providers DHS contracts eight different nonprofits throughout the state to conduct outreach to households eligible for SNAP benefits and to provide assistance with referrals to food resources in the community.