Thursday, 21 May 2015

Hawaii Law & Food Stamps

Hawaii's food stamp program provides nutrition assistance to low-income families.


The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program providing food benefits for needy families. The Hawaii Department of Human Services reports that, starting October 1, 2008, the state's food stamp program was officially named SNAP, in accordance with requirements from the 2008 Farm Bill.


Eligibility


Applicants must be residents of Hawaii with less than $2,000 in countable resources and gross monthly income that is less than 130 percent of federal poverty guidelines. As of 2010, the maximum gross monthly income allowed for a family of two receiving food stamps is $1,816.


Apply


Applicants should contact Hawaii's public assistance information line (808-643-1643) to locate a public assistance office in their area. Information is available at this number 24 hours a day, seven days a week.


Significance


In 2008, approximately 48,000 Hawaiian households received SNAP benefits. Many food stamp recipients are children or the elderly.


Warning


An applicant or recipient who lies or hides facts pertaining to benefits is subject to fines and prosecution.

Tags: food stamp, food stamp program, gross monthly, gross monthly income, less than