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Hawai'i DHS Provides Guidance and Support for Households Affected by Federal Shutdown Suspension of SNAP Benefits

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the ongoing federal government shutdown disrupts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, the Hawai'i Department of Human Services (DHS) is working to ensure households receive clear information and support. The department is providing guidance on the temporary suspension of November 2025 SNAP benefit issuances, assuring residents that previously loaded benefits can still be used, and announcing a Hawai'i Relief Program to offer payment support for housing and utilities. DHS emphasizes its commitment to supporting affected households, ensuring timely information, and coordinating with local community food resources.

Key Takeaways:

  • The federal government shutdown has led to the temporary suspension of November 2025 SNAP benefit issuances, effective November 1, 2025.
  • Households can still redeem EBT benefits issued before November 1 at any SNAP-authorized retailer.
  • Eligibility for SNAP remains unaffected, with households remaining certified for the program.
  • New applicants may still be approved, and certification periods will continue as normal.
  • Retroactive benefits for November will be issued once funding is restored.
  • The Hawai'i Relief Program will provide eligible families with dependent children with payment support for housing and utilities, starting on October 29, 2025.
  • DHS will share more information about the program, including eligibility criteria and application procedures.
  • Residents can find updated information on the DHS website (https://humanservices.hawaii.gov) or by calling the Public Assistance Information Line at 1-855-643-1643.

Statistics:

  • The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has notified states that all November 2025 SNAP benefit allotments are suspended, effective November 1, 2025.
  • The suspension affects November issuance only and does not impact the ability to use previously loaded benefits.
  • DHS has contracted with eight different nonprofits throughout the state to provide SNAP outreach and referrals to food resources in the community.
  • Aloha United Way is a SNAP outreach provider that maintains a database for referrals to food resources in the community.
  • The Hawai'i Foodbank works with its network of food partner agencies to serve the needs of the community on O'ahu and Kaua'i.
  • The Maui Food Bank distributes over 8 million pounds of food each year, including 2.3 million pounds of fresh produce.

Sources:

  • "HAWAI'I DHS PROVIDES GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT FOR HOUSEHOLDS AFFECTED BY FEDERAL SHUTDOWN SUSPENSION OF SNAP BENEFITS" (US State of Hawaii DHS News Release, October 24, 2025, https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/news-release/)

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