Native Hawaiians living on Maui who were financially or medically impacted by COVID-19 can apply for the ʻAi Hua food voucher program.
Maui Economic Opportunity is overseeing the program, which is funded by a $150,000 grant from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
Applicants will be accepted until funds are exhausted. The food vouchers will be mailed to accepted applicants on a monthly basis. Larger households will receive more vouchers with a maximum of $150 per household.
Eligibility requirements include the following:
- At least one household member is Native Hawaiian.
- At least one household member has been impacted by COVID-19.
- Residents of Maui Island.
Documentation needed:
- Photo ID of all adults.
- Proof of Native Hawaiian ancestry – birth certificate, signed determination letters provided by Native Hawaiian serving organizations (Queen Lili‘uokalani Children’s Center, Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, Alu Like, Hui No Ke Ola Pono, Kamehameha Schools Maui, etc.).
- Recent 1040 or N-11 tax form to confirm size of household.
- Proof of income loss due to pandemic.
The vouchers can be used at select stalls at Maui farmers markets and online with Maui Hub.
"What we’re hoping to do with this program is get more people out there shopping locally, buying local fruits and vegetables. Just generally improving their health," said Jennifer McGurn, the assistant director of community services for MEO.
"COVID has brought all of that into focus a little bit more, and we just want people to experience and see what’s out there from our local farmers, and all the great products that are out there," McGurn said.
Native Hawaiian residents of Maui Island can apply online. Forms also can be obtained at MEO’s Wailuku office, 99 Mahalani St. Applications can be mailed out to individuals as well.
