Maui’s community groups are stepping it up as many families face food benefit cuts. If the government doesn’t reopen, these cuts will hit on November 1st.
Take Lori Vakalahi, for example. She’s a mom of four, with her youngest just three months old. Lori relies on the Living Pono Project in Kahului for meals. “It helps so much,” she says. “Groceries are pricey. Just one meal can cost over $100.”
This organization first launched in response to the recent Maui fires and now supports around 700 families weekly. Executive Director Makaleʻa Ane notes a big increase in demand due to the government shutdown. “When you’re living paycheck to paycheck, every bit counts,” she says. “Some have to choose between groceries and rent.”
Without government action, families relying on SNAP may find their EBT cards inactive as soon as next Saturday. More than 165,000 people in Hawaii are dependent on this support.
In response, the governor plans to use $110 million from the “Temporary Assistance for Needy Families” (TANF) grant. This funding helps low-income families afford essential living costs.
Groups like Maui Rapid Response are also stepping in to help. Executive Director Nicole Huguenin shared how urgent the situation is. “We had a man come by looking for food, shocked that SNAP might go away,” she said. “Hunger doesn’t wait for applications.”
Need help? Check out Maui Food Bank for resources.
As economic pressures mount, this isn’t just a local issue. Nationwide, food insecurity is climbing. Recent statistics show that 10.5% of U.S. households were food insecure in 2021. Comparing this with 2000, when it was just 11.1%, reveals a troubling trend. Expert opinions suggest that rising living costs, stagnant wages, and inflation are major contributors to the crisis.
Engaging with community organizations can make a significant difference. They not only offer immediate relief but also empower families to navigate these challenging times.
