Eligibility requirements to change as Maui Relief Program enters next phase

KAHULUI (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Maui Relief Program is entering its next phase, starting Aug. 1, according to the Hawaii Department of Human Services.

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The program was created in October of 2023, with the goal of providing short-term relief for Maui residents impacted by the August 2023 wildfires.

Beginning in August, the program will focus its efforts on eligible households with minor dependent children under the age of 18.

DHS partnered with Maui Economic Opportunity, Inc. to help families with essentials, such as rent and mortgage payments, utilities, vehicle payments, clothing, school supplies, and appliances.

The program was funded through the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, as well as non-federal grants.

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State funding for disaster relief was added to the program in October of 2025, to support households not eligible for federal assistance.

However, the state funds are expected to be fully used by August.

In response, DHS is adjusting the program to align with federal TANF eligibility requirements starting next month.

Click here to learn more and apply for support from the Maui Relief Program.

For more information, call (808) 243-4316 or email [email protected].

For those in need of assistance who do not have minor dependent children, DHS recommends the following alternative resources for assistance and referrals.

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