The Office of State Senator Bennette Misalucha (District 16 -Pearl City,  Momilani, Pearlridge ‘Aiea, Royal Summit, ‘Aiea Heights, Newtown, Waimalu, Hālawa, and Pearl Harbor) has collaborated with the Department of Human Services and the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to present a free, virtual educational forum called “Neighbors Helping Neighbors.”  The event seeks to inform and empower advocates, ministry outreach volunteers, and other interested individuals on what state agency social services are available to help community members in need. The forum begins April 20, April 27, and ends May 4, 2022, and is scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

“When the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic impacted departments and agencies’ ability to provide in-person outreach services, we suddenly faced limitations in serving our community,” said Senator Bennette Misalucha. “I know that there are many Good Samaritans in our communities who want to advocate for those in need but have been confused by the process of navigating these complex social welfare programs,” she added. “It is my hope that these forums will provide vital information to support those who want to provide a helping hand.”

The public is encouraged to virtually attend each of the three forums to learn more about the different services and resources. The agencies and topics in the forum include:

Department of Human Services

• SNAP | Financial Assistance – Learn about the Online Application process, recertification, uploading of documents, Benefits Verification Letter, and EBT Card Replacement
• Homelessness – Learn more about Ohana Zones and other homeless programs, and eviction and homeless prevention resources
• Med-QUEST – Learn more about how to apply for healthcare coverage and long-term services and supports
• Child Care Subsidies – Learn how child care subsidies can help pay for a variety of legal child care settings including care provided in the child’s home, care by relatives or friends in their home, before and after school programs, and preschools
• Child Care Licensing – Learn about licensed child care centers and Family Child Care Homes – child care in a private residence, including a home, apartment, unit, or townhouse where three to no more than six children are unrelated

Department of Labor and Industrial Relations

• Unemployment Insurance Benefits – Eligibility and Requirements; How to Apply; How to File a Claim Certification; How to Obtain Assistance with Your Claim
• Career Assistance – Overview of Available Programs and Resources; Eligibility and Requirements for Programs; Apprenticeship Opportunities; How to Obtain Career Assistance
• State Anti-Discrimination Laws – Overview of Laws Prohibiting Discrimination in Employment, Housing, Public Accommodations, and State-Funded Services; How to File a Complaint; Process and Remedies
• Grants-in-Aid Assistance – Overview of the Grant-in-Aid Administration Process; Overview of Federally Funded Anti-Poverty Programs for Low-Income Individuals, Immigrants, and Refugees;How to Connect with Service Providers

For more information or to register, please visit: https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/memberpage.aspx?member=misalucha&year=2022