Food help in Hawaii
The short answer
For food today, dial 211. For monthly help, apply for SNAP online on PAIS, at a DHS processing center, or by phone at 1 855 643 1643. WIC serves pregnant women, new moms and children under 5.
Need help tonight?
Food today
Dial 211 and say "I need food today" with your city or ZIP. Ask for pantries and hot meals open today, what to bring, and whether they deliver.
Official page: auw211.org
Apply for SNAP
DHS says there are 3 ways to apply: online on PAIS, on a paper form (DHS 1240) mailed or dropped off at a processing center, or by phone at 1 855 643 1643. After you apply you get a tracking number, and DHS contacts you for an interview. Interpreter requests: 1 888 764 7586.
Official page: humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/snap
What SNAP can and can't buy
The USDA says SNAP can buy foods like fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, dairy, bread, cereal, snacks and seeds or plants that grow food. It can't buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins or medicine, hot foods, pet food, or household and hygiene items.
Official page: fns.usda.gov/snap/eligible-food-items
WIC
Hawaii WIC serves pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum women, infants and children under 5 who meet income guidelines and have a medical or nutrition need. Call the WIC agency nearest you. From the neighbor islands, the WIC Services Branch line is 1 888 820 6425.
Official pages: health.hawaii.gov/wic/wic-la-information, health.hawaii.gov/wic/files/2013/04/WIC-AGENCY-DIRECTORY-.pdf
Your EBT card
DHS has an EBT page with card information.
Official page: humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/snap/ebt
More help in Hawaii
Sources last checked October 27, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or a spot in any program. Each place decides who it can serve. You choose what feels right for you.