Hawaii is one of the most expensive states to live in. Seniors who live in the state may struggle financially as a result of the high cost of living in the state. Rather than go without having their basic needs met, they can turn to programs that will provide help meeting basic needs. There are programs that provide financial assistance for seniors in Hawaii that will help make ends meet each month.
Most seniors live on a fixed income, which makes them struggle when the prices of goods and services goes up. When that happens, they may not be able to their bills paid. Getting help with paying the rent, purchasing groceries, and paying for some bills can make a huge difference and be the help that is needed.
The programs below are open to seniors in Hawaii and will help ensure their basic needs are being met. They are largely funded by the state and federal government, as well as by some organizations that help people in the community. You can apply for any or all of the programs that you feel are a good fit, because there is no limit to how many you can get help from at one time. The more you apply for, the better your chances of getting all of your basic needs met.
Programs Offering Financial Assistance
Food Assistance Programs
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Seniors in Hawaii who need help purchasing their groceries can apply for SNAP. This is a federally funded program that used to be called food stamps and is still what many people cal it today. To qualify for SNAP, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. Unlike some government funded programs, there are no limits on how long you can receive assistance through SNAP. If you continue to meet the qualifications then you can continue to get the food assistance. Those who are approved will receive a debit-style card that the government electronically adds funds to each month. The card can then be used to pay for groceries at the store or farmers market. To get more information and apply for SNAP, click here.
Salvation Army – This faith-based organization has locations around Hawaii. They provide assistance programs to people in the community who need it. One of the programs they offer is providing help with obtaining food. They offer free hot meals that people can stop by and eat, and they offer a pantry that allows people to take food items home with them. They also provide free shelters, clothing, some bill payment assistance, and more. To find a location in your area, click here.
The Pantry – This organization provides a food pantry for those who need help with obtaining food. Their pantry is set up like a grocery store, so you can shop for the items you need and you will get them for free. They also allow people to shop for food items online. To get more information, click here.
Rent Assistance Programs
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Housing is likely the biggest expense that a senior faces on a monthly basis. The cost of housing in Hawaii is a challenge for many people and they struggle to get it paid each month. HUD is a federal agency that has a mission of helping people with their housing needs. Those who have a low income and are a citizen or legal non-citizen can turn to HUD for housing assistance. They have several programs that can help, including rent assistance, affordable housing location assistance, and help paying for home repairs. They also help homebuyers who may be facing foreclosure. There is no limit to how long you can get help through HUD. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
Hawaii Public Housing Authority – This office is funded by the state government and will provide residents with assistance with their housing needs. They have programs that will provide rent assistance and help people find affordable housing options to consider. To qualify for assistance, you have to meet the low income requirements. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Utility Bills Assistance Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – With the rising cost of energy, some seniors may need bill payment assistance in Hawaii. This program is funded by the federal government and will help people by paying their energy bill. Those who are approved for the program will have their bill paid for on their behalf. You will need to re-apply for this program each time the window for it opens, which is October. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
211 – While this resource can help you find programs that will provide utility bill payment assistance in Hawaii, it can also help you find other programs to help with things. It’s a number provided by the United Way that will refer you to programs in your area for the things you need assistance with. The referral program is free to use and open to everyone. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medical Bills Assistance Programs
Medicaid – This federally funded program will help people pay for their medical bills if they meet the low income requirements and are a citizen or legal non-citizen. Those who are approved for Medicaid will be able to get help paying for all types of medical bills, including for the doctor, hospital and prescription drugs. This program is for those who are under 65. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is similar to Medicaid, listed above, but it is for those who are over the age of 65. Using this program is not tied to one’s income. It is open to every citizen or legal non-citizen who is over the age of 65. It will help provide medical bill payment assistance and there is no limit to how long you can use it. To get more information and apply, click here.
