Local SNAP beneficiaries to receive $250 each as federal government works to prevent SNAP payments
Amid uncertainty and legal disputes over federal SNAP benefits, the Hawaiʻi state government has taken decisive action to ensure no resident goes without food assistance.
With federal funding stalled by a government shutdown and conflicting court rulings, many households faced the risk of missing critical support. Hawaiʻi’s rapid-response emergency initiative has stepped in to bridge the gap.
SNAP Payments Blocked by Federal Shutdown
The issue escalated when the Trump administration declared that, due to the federal government shutdown, no additional SNAP benefits would be issued. This move raised alarms nationwide, as millions rely on these funds for daily meals.
Although two federal courts initially mandated continued payments, the U.S. Supreme Court intervened with an emergency ruling to pause full SNAP distributions until the shutdown resolves. The USDA subsequently instructed states to withhold regular benefit loads, causing widespread disruption—including in Hawaiʻi.
Hawaiʻi Rolls Out State-Funded Emergency Aid
To prevent food insecurity, the Hawaiʻi Department of Human Services (DHS) introduced the Hawaiʻi Emergency Food Assistance Program. On Monday, November 10, eligible SNAP households received $250 per person automatically loaded onto their EBT cards.
For example:
- 1 person = $250
- 2 people = $500
- 3 people = $750
And so on.
No separate application was required—the funds appeared directly on existing EBT accounts.
Who Is Eligible for the Payment?
Households already approved for November SNAP benefits received the emergency funds automatically. Those not yet enrolled but experiencing hardship can still apply for SNAP through DHS channels.
Here’s a quick look at what you need to know:
| Household Size | Emergency Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $250 |
| 2 | $500 |
| 3 | $750 |
| 4 | $1,000 |
How to Get More Help
For additional information or assistance:
- Call the DHS hotline at (855) 643-1643, Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 4 PM.
- Visit the Hawaiʻi Department of Human Services website for updates or to apply for SNAP.
Even amid a federal crisis, Hawaiʻi has proven that state-level solutions can protect vulnerable families. This emergency funding offers immediate relief to those impacted by political gridlock in Washington, D.C.
When national systems falter, local leadership rises. Hawaiʻi’s swift action ensures food access remains a priority—no matter the challenges from afar.
This one-time payment provides breathing room for thousands of households, highlighting the strength of community-focused governance during turbulent times.
FAQs
Who received the emergency SNAP payment in Hawaiʻi on Nov. 10?
Any household approved for November SNAP benefits automatically received $250 per person on their EBT cards.
Do I need to apply separately to get the emergency payment?
No—if you were already approved for November SNAP, the funds were added automatically.
Can new applicants still apply for SNAP assistance in Hawaiʻi?
Yes. Visit the DHS website or call the hotline to begin the application process.
Why did the federal government freeze full SNAP payments?
The Trump administration paused payments due to the government shutdown and successfully appealed to the Supreme Court to block full distributions until the crisis ends.
Will Hawaiʻi continue to issue emergency funds if the shutdown continues?
No further payments are confirmed, but the state will evaluate options based on the duration of the shutdown and any new federal court decisions.

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