Menu
housing assistance in hawaii

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Hawaii

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Hawaii

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025


Main Points

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance. Press option for homeless services.

Can’t pay utilities and received disconnect notice? Apply for H-HEAP Energy Crisis Intervention – up to $700 available year-round, processed on first-come basis.

Need rent help now? Contact your Community Action Agency for emergency assistance, but funding is very limited:

  • Oahu: Honolulu Community Action Program (808) 521-4531
  • Hawaii County: Hawaii County Economic Opportunity Council (808) 961-2681
  • Maui County: Maui Economic Opportunity (808) 249-2970
  • Kauai County: Kauai Community Action Program (808) 245-4077

In danger? Domestic Violence Action Center: (808) 531-3771 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Community Action Agency Emergency Assistance

Hawaii’s Community Action Agencies provide the primary source of emergency rental assistance since most federal programs have ended. These agencies operate on each major island and provide crisis intervention services including rental assistance, utility help, and emergency shelter referrals.

What it covers:

  • Emergency rental assistance (amounts vary by agency and funding availability)
  • Utility crisis intervention
  • Security deposits for new housing
  • Temporary emergency shelter referrals
  • Case management services

Income requirements: Generally serves households at or below 125% of Federal Poverty Level, with priority given to families with children and those facing imminent eviction.

How to apply: Contact your island’s Community Action Agency directly. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Processing time: Emergency applications are typically processed within 24-48 hours if funding is available.

Reality check: Funding is extremely limited across all Hawaiian islands. Many agencies have waiting lists or suspend programs when funds are exhausted. Hawaii County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) wound down in November 2022 and has not been fully replaced. Apply immediately if you need help.

H-HEAP Energy Crisis Intervention

The Hawaii Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP) provides emergency utility assistance to prevent shutoffs.

Crisis benefits: Up to $700 for households facing utility disconnection or who have already been shut off.

How to apply: Contact your Community Action Agency year-round. Applications require disconnect notices and proof of income.

Processing time: Crisis applications are processed within 7-10 business days if all documentation is provided.

Family Promise Hawaii

Family Promise Hawaii provides emergency shelter and rapid rehousing specifically for families with children.

Services include:

  • Emergency shelter (up to 90 days)
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Case management and supportive services
  • Housing search assistance

How to apply: Contact Family Promise Hawaii at (808) 548-7478 or complete their Program Inquiry Form.

2-1-1 Hawaii

Call 2-1-1 or visit hawaii211.org for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program helps very low-income families pay rent in the private market. Each Hawaiian county operates its own program with different waitlist statuses and income limits.

Current Waitlist Status (August 2025)

County Status Last Opened Next Opening
Hawaii County (Big Island) Open – Opened August 1, 2025 August 1, 2025 Open until further notice
Honolulu (Oahu) Closed – Last opened July 14-18, 2025 July 14-18, 2025 No date announced
Maui County Closed Check mauicounty.gov No date announced
Kauai County Closed Contact (808) 241-4444 No date announced

Income Eligibility (2025)

Source: HUD Income Limits 2025

Family Size Honolulu County (Very Low 50% AMI) Hawaii County (Very Low 50% AMI) Maui County (Very Low 50% AMI)
1 person $85,750 $55,600 $68,500
2 people $97,950 $63,550 $78,250
3 people $110,150 $71,450 $88,000
4 people $122,350 $79,400 $97,750

Note: Extremely low income (30% AMI) limits are approximately 60% of these amounts and receive priority.

Application process:

  1. Wait for your county’s Public Housing Authority to open their waitlist
  2. Submit application during the brief application period (usually 3-7 days)
  3. Applications are selected through lottery system, not first-come basis
  4. Complete eligibility interview and provide extensive documentation
  5. Wait 2-5 years for voucher availability
  6. Attend voucher briefing and receive Housing Choice Voucher
  7. Find qualifying rental unit within 60-120 days
  8. Pass housing quality standards inspection before move-in

Reality check: Waiting times in Hawaii average 2-5 years, with Honolulu experiencing the longest waits. Many housing authorities close their waiting lists for years when they receive too many applications. Even with a voucher, finding landlords who accept Section 8 is extremely difficult due to Hawaii’s tight rental market.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Honolulu $1,950 $2,450 $3,850 $4,350
Hawaii County $1,350 $1,650 $2,350 $2,750
Maui County $1,850 $2,300 $3,100 $3,600
Kauai County $1,650 $2,050 $2,850 $3,350

These are maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in each area.

Public Housing

Public housing developments are operated by local housing authorities and typically cost 30% of adjusted income.

Pros:

  • Lower cost than market rent
  • Stable housing with on-site management
  • Some properties offer family services

Cons:

  • Very limited units available
  • Waiting lists often longer than Section 8
  • Locations may be in high-crime areas
  • Strict lease requirements

How to apply: Contact your county’s public housing authority when waitlists open (same agencies that handle Section 8).

State Rent Supplement Program (Oahu Only)

HPHA operates a state-funded rent supplement program providing up to $500 monthly rental assistance.

Benefits: Shallow rent subsidy of up to $500 per month for eligible low-income families on Oahu.

Eligibility: Must meet low-income requirements and be on Oahu.

How to apply: Contact Hawaii Public Housing Authority at (808) 832-4900.

Utility Assistance Programs

Hawaii Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP)

H-HEAP provides heating and cooling assistance to help with electric and gas bills.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse Hawaii Profile

Benefit Type Amount Available Application Period
Energy Credit (EC) $280 minimum, $1,400 maximum June 2-30, 2025 only
Energy Crisis Intervention (ECI) Up to $700 maximum Year-round, first-come basis

Income Eligibility

Income limits vary by household size and are set at approximately 60% of state median income

Income exemption: Households automatically qualify regardless of income if anyone receives TANF, SNAP, or SSI benefits.

Application process:

  • Energy Credit: Apply only during June 2-30, 2025 through your Community Action Agency
  • Crisis Intervention: Apply year-round if you have a disconnect notice

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for applicant
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Current utility bills or disconnect notices
  • Proof of income for previous month for all household members 18+

How to apply: Contact your Community Action Agency – applications cannot be submitted directly to the state.

Reality check: Energy Credit funding is extremely limited and fills quickly during the June application period. Crisis intervention is available year-round but amounts are limited and processed first-come, first-served. Apply immediately when disconnect notices arrive.

Utility Company Low-Income Programs

Hawaiian Electric (HECO) Tier Waiver Program

H-HEAP recipients automatically receive the lowest electric rate tier for 12 months.

Benefits: All electricity usage billed at the lowest rate tier, potentially saving hundreds annually.

How to qualify: Automatically enrolled when you receive H-HEAP Energy Credit.

Homeownership Programs

Hawaii Housing Finance & Development Corporation (HHFDC) Programs

Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) Program

The MCC program provides a federal tax credit equal to 20% of mortgage interest paid annually.

Benefits: Tax credit for 20% of annual mortgage interest, potentially saving thousands per year.

Income limits (2025): $107,200 to $163,782 depending on household size and county.

Purchase price limits: $396,527 to $702,283 depending on location.

How to apply: Work with an HHFDC-approved lender and pay $425 in fees.

Affordable Resale Program

The Affordable Resale Program offers homes as low as $325,000 for income-qualified buyers.

Benefits: Below-market homes with deed restrictions.

Requirements: Income must be sufficient to afford the loan but not exceed HHFDC income limits.

Hawaii HomeOwnership Center (HHOC) Programs

HHOC provides down payment assistance and affordable mortgages statewide.

Down Payment Assistance Loan (DPAL): Second mortgage up to $75,000 with interest rate 2% above first mortgage rate, due in 15 years.

Deferred Closing Cost Loan: Up to $10,000 with no interest and no monthly payments, matching borrower contribution 4:1.

Requirements:

  • First-time homebuyer (no home ownership in past 3 years)
  • Minimum credit score of 700
  • Complete 9 hours of homebuyer education
  • Must use HHOC Mortgage for financing

FHA Loans

Federal Housing Administration loans require as little as 3.5% down payment and accept lower credit scores than conventional loans.

Benefits:

  • Down payment as low as 3.5%
  • Credit scores as low as 580 accepted (500 with 10% down)
  • Gift funds allowed for down payment
  • Competitive interest rates

VA Loans (for Veterans)

Veterans and eligible spouses can access VA loans with:

  • No down payment required
  • No private mortgage insurance
  • Competitive interest rates
  • No prepayment penalties

County-Specific Programs

City and County of Honolulu Down Payment Loan Program

Provides up to $40,000 in 0% interest loans for down payment assistance.

Terms: 20-year amortization with occupancy credits reducing balance.

Contact: Department of Community Services at (808) 768-7762.

Maui County Down Payment Assistance

Provides up to $30,000 or 5% of purchase price for down payment assistance.

Terms: Repaid only when home is sold or refinanced.

Contact: Department of Housing and Human Concerns at (808) 270-7805.

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Hale Kipa (Youth and Young Families)

Hale Kipa provides transitional housing for youth aging out of foster care and young families.

Services include:

  • Transitional housing for up to 24 months
  • Life skills training and support
  • Educational and employment assistance
  • Parenting support for young mothers

Counties served: Primarily Oahu, with some services statewide.

Domestic Violence Housing

Domestic Violence Action Center

24/7 Hotline: (808) 531-3771

Safe housing options for survivors of domestic violence, including:

  • Emergency shelter
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Safety planning and support services

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

Hawaii has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, but these resources provide affirming support:

Local resources:

  • Equality Hawaii: Advocacy and resource referrals
  • Rainbow Family 808: Support group for LGBTQ+ families
  • Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers

National resources:

  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources

Native Hawaiian-Specific Resources

Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) Programs

DHHL provides housing assistance specifically for Native Hawaiians on the waiting list.

DHHL Rent Relief Program:

  • Rental assistance for families on the DHHL waiting list
  • Income qualification at less than 80% Area Median Income
  • Priority given to those under 50% AMI

Native Hawaiian Housing Block Grant:

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families on the outer islands face unique challenges including limited transportation and fewer service providers.

Specialized resources:

  • Island-specific Community Action Agencies provide outreach services
  • Mobile service delivery available in some areas of Hawaii County
  • Telehealth and virtual support services for remote areas

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
  • Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments
  • Hawaii County: Hele-On Bus provides limited rural service

Single Fathers

Single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access the same programs described above. All housing assistance programs are available regardless of gender.

Additional resources:

  • National At-Home Dad Network: Support groups and resources
  • Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups in Hawaii

Resources by Island

Oahu (Honolulu County)

Honolulu Community Action Program (HCAP)

  • H-HEAP utility assistance
  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Food assistance and other services
  • Phone: (808) 521-4531
  • Website: hcapweb.org

Hawaii Public Housing Authority

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (Oahu only)
  • Public housing
  • State Rent Supplement Program
  • Phone: (808) 832-4900
  • Website: hpha.hawaii.gov

City & County of Honolulu Department of Community Services

  • Down payment assistance
  • Emergency assistance
  • Phone: (808) 768-7762

Hawaii County (Big Island)

Hawaii County Economic Opportunity Council (HCEOC)

  • H-HEAP assistance
  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Housing counseling
  • Phone: (808) 961-2681
  • Website: hceoc.net

Hawaii County Office of Housing and Community Development

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Emergency Housing Vouchers
  • Special purpose vouchers
  • Phone: (808) 959-4642
  • Email: sec8info@hawaiicounty.gov

The Coordination Center

  • Emergency housing assistance
  • Resource navigation
  • Phone/Text: (808) 501-1413

Maui County

Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO)

  • H-HEAP utility assistance
  • Emergency assistance programs
  • Food assistance
  • Phone: (808) 249-2970
  • Website: meoinc.org

Maui County Housing Division

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Down payment assistance
  • Public housing
  • Phone: (808) 270-7805

Kauai County

Kauai Community Action Program

  • H-HEAP assistance
  • Emergency services
  • Food assistance
  • Phone: (808) 245-4077

Kauai County Housing Agency

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Home buyer assistance programs
  • Phone: (808) 241-4444

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in Hawaii?

Waiting times in Hawaii are among the longest in the nation:

  • Honolulu (Oahu): 3-5 years typically
  • Hawaii County: 2-3 years typically
  • Maui County: 2-4 years typically
  • Kauai County: 2-3 years typically

Priority is given to families experiencing homelessness, those with disabilities, and elderly households. Many housing authorities close their waiting lists for years when they become too long.

Can I use Section 8 if I move between islands?

Yes, Section 8 vouchers are “portable” between states and counties, but you must follow the portability process. Contact your current housing authority before moving. However, finding available units and willing landlords on other islands can be extremely difficult.

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

Hawaii does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. Many do refuse due to program requirements and inspection processes. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords, though options are very limited.

Can I get help if I’m working multiple jobs?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. However, Hawaii’s income limits are set very high due to the cost of living. A single mother with two children can typically earn up to about $110,150 annually (50% AMI) in Honolulu and still qualify for very low-income housing programs.

What if I have bad credit or an eviction on my record?

Many emergency assistance programs don’t have strict credit requirements. For long-term housing like Section 8, housing authorities may consider negative history but often allow explanations and evidence of changed circumstances. Past evictions don’t automatically disqualify you, but outstanding debts to housing authorities will.

How do I prove my income if I work multiple part-time jobs?

Keep detailed records of all work and income. Get written statements from all employers, even for cash work. Your local housing counselor can help you document irregular income properly. Many Hawaii residents work multiple jobs, so agencies are familiar with complex income situations.

What if I’m Native Hawaiian – are there special programs?

Yes, Native Hawaiians may be eligible for Department of Hawaiian Home Lands programs including rent relief and homeownership opportunities on Hawaiian Home Lands. Contact DHHL at (808) 620-9500 to learn about eligibility requirements.

Can I get help moving from the mainland to Hawaii?

Moving assistance is generally not available, and moving to Hawaii without housing already secured is strongly discouraged. Hawaii has limited affordable housing and extremely high costs. Establish employment and housing before relocating.

What happens if my income increases after getting assistance?

Most programs have annual income reviews. If your income increases above program limits, you may have a phase-out period. For Section 8, you’ll pay more toward rent as your income rises, but you can keep your voucher as long as you’re paying less than market rent.

How do I appeal if I’m denied assistance?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice of denial with information about requesting a hearing. Don’t miss the deadline – usually 10-14 days from the denial date. Contact Legal Aid Society of Hawaii at (808) 536-4302 for help with appeals.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Harsh Realities About Hawaii Housing

Extreme housing costs: Hawaii has some of the highest housing costs in the nation. Even with assistance, finding affordable housing is extremely difficult.

Limited assistance availability: Most emergency rental assistance programs have ended or have very limited funding. Don’t count on getting help quickly.

Long waiting lists: Section 8 waiting lists are 2-5 years long and frequently closed. Apply immediately when they open.

Few landlords accept vouchers: Most private landlords refuse Section 8 due to program requirements and Hawaii’s tight rental market.

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8 or public housing. Government programs are free to apply for.

Fake rental listings: Be wary of rental ads that require money upfront before viewing the property or seem too good to be true for Hawaii’s market.

“Guaranteed” housing: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or move to the front of waiting lists.

Common Challenges

Transportation barriers: Many outer island areas have limited public transportation. Plan for car ownership costs.

Childcare needs: Some appointments don’t allow children. Ask about childcare assistance or virtual options.

Documentation requirements: Gather documents in advance. Missing paperwork is the most common reason for delays.

Language barriers: Request interpreters if needed. Most agencies provide language assistance.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait to be denied by one program before applying to others.

Build relationships with case workers: Maintain regular contact and provide updates on your situation.

Consider less popular islands: Housing may be more available (though still limited) on Big Island or Kauai compared to Oahu.

Have realistic expectations: Even with assistance, you may need to live in smaller spaces or less desirable areas.

Get help navigating the system: Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for free assistance.

Additional Resources

Hawaii State Agencies

Hawaii Department of Human Services

  • TANF, SNAP, Medicaid applications
  • H-HEAP program administration
  • Phone: (808) 586-4993
  • Website: humanservices.hawaii.gov

Hawaii Housing Finance & Development Corporation

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

  • General housing information
  • Phone: (800) 569-4287
  • Website: hud.gov

USDA Rural Development

  • Limited rural programs in Hawaii
  • Phone: (800) 670-6553
  • Website: rd.usda.gov

Legal Aid

Legal Aid Society of Hawaii

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Eviction defense
  • Phone: (808) 536-4302
  • Website: legalaidhawaii.org

Volunteer Legal Services Hawaii

  • Pro bono legal assistance
  • Housing law help
  • Phone: (808) 528-7046

Financial Counseling

Hawaii HomeOwnership Center

  • Homebuyer education and counseling
  • Financial literacy programs
  • Phone: (808) 587-7886
  • Website: hihomeownership.org

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Hawaii guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Hawaii Department of Human Services, Hawaii Public Housing Authority, Community Action Agencies, and HUD to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Hawaii Department of Human Services, Hawaii Public Housing Authority, HUD, and Community Action Agency sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs in Hawaii is extremely limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply. Hawaii’s high cost of living makes housing assistance particularly competitive.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

🏛️More Hawaii Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Hawaii

Related Posts