Hawaiʻi SNAP, WIC programs work together to support healthy families throughout state

Hawaiʻi Department of Health and Department of Human Services are strengthening coordination between two programs that provide qualifying families with access to nutritional food and vital health support.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, and still commonly referred to as food stamps, provides monthly food benefits to low-income individuals and families, helping them purchase healthy foods through an electronic benefit transfer card accepted at participating grocery stores statewide.

Another program, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, or WIC, complements that support by serving pregnant and postpartum women, infants and children younger than 5 years old, who are at nutritional risk, offering healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support and referrals to health and social services.

Families receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits could be automatically income-eligible for Women, Infants and Children.

Hawaiʻi Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program now shares monthly referrals with Women, Infants and Children via a new referral process to help identify families who might qualify but are not yet enrolled.

Women, Infants and Children staff typically reach out within a few business days by phone, text or email after a referral to offer a brief appointment, which can be completed by phone or in person.

“When families have access to nutritious food, it supports not just physical health, but stability, dignity and opportunity,” said Hawaiʻi Department of Human Services Director Ryan Yamane in announcing the new referral process. “By strengthening the connection between [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] and [Women, Infants and Children], we are making it easier for families to receive the full range of support available to them during some of life’s most important stages.”

Research shows Women, Infants and Children participation improves pregnancy outcomes, reduces premature births and infant mortality, supports healthy child development and lowers long-term healthcare costs.

The program’s food benefits include fruits and vegetables, milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, whole grains, infant foods and other nutritious options tailored to the needs of participants.

“Our goal is to meet families where they are and make the process as welcoming and simple as possible,” said Hawaiʻi Department of Health Women, Infants and Children Services Branch chief Melanie Murakami in the state announcement. “[Women, Infants and Children] is about more than food. It is about supporting healthy pregnancies, healthy keiki and confident caregivers with practical tools and trusted guidance.”

Eligibility for Women, Infants and Children is not based on citizenship status.

Hawaiʻi residents who are pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding or have a child younger than 5 years old could qualify if they meet income guidelines and are found to be at nutritional risk by a health professional.

Proof of pregnancy is not required to apply.

Families who are unsure or not ready to enroll can receive additional information and decide later. Participation is voluntary; all services are provided at no cost.

Click here to learn more about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Women, Infants and Children programs, including eligibility requirements.