Hawaiʻi residents relying on food assistance will receive state funds on their EBT cards on Monday, providing $250 per individual through the Hawaiʻi Emergency Food Assistance Program. This action aims to support low-income families amid the Supreme Court’s hold on federal food assistance dollars, according to the Department of Human Services.
The Department of Human Services confirmed the distribution, with Deputy Director Joseph Campos II stating, "Due to the uncertainty surrounding the Supreme Court pause and the use of federal dollars, the state can assure you that on Monday, November 10, your EBT card will have the state funds of $250 per individual as part of its Hawaiʻi Emergency Food Assistance Program (HEFAP)." This measure ensures that residents have a financial cushion to cover their food needs this month.
The Department of Human Services is asking recipients to use state Hawaiʻi Emergency Food Assistance Program funds first for food purchases before federal funds. With federal SNAP benefits still under review, the state is providing these funds to prevent gaps in assistance. Joseph Campos II said, "Further guidance will come out regarding the use of federal SNAP benefits. DHS will be reviewing the guidelines and assessing possible actions." People are advised to check the Department of Human Services website for updates and information on other nutrition assistance options.
