Covid-19 Information and Programs Available
COVID-19 information
Last chance to apply for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program
The deadline to apply for financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Coronavirus Food Assistance Program is Friday, September 11. Farmers are encouraged to apply, as funding is still available for many specialty crops and livestock produced in Hawai‘i. Visit farmers.gov/cfap for more information and to submit an application.
Hawai‘i Energy launches energy relief grant program
This new program will award a total of $1 million in funding for energy efficiency improvements for small businesses, nonprofits, and other qualifying organizations experiencing economic loss due to COVID-19. Eligible applicants may apply for up to $25,000 to cover eligible expenses on pre-approved energy efficiency projects. Visit hawaiienergy.com/grant or refer to the press release for more information.
Request personal protective equipment (PPE) at no cost
The Hawai‘i State Legislature approved funding to provide eligible applicants with PPE at no cost. Eligible applicants include private or independent medical and dental practices; small hospitals; child, adult, or foster care facilities; small businesses; and nonprofit organizations in the state of Hawai‘i. Locally available supplies will be distributed quickly, although it might take up to three months to receive your full order. Visit the program website for more information and to submit a request.
County of Hawai‘i small business and nonprofit relief grants available
Eligible small businesses and nonprofit organizations on Hawai‘i Island may apply for up to $10,000 in funding to support core operations, safe on-going and reopening costs, personal protective equipment, and training and technical assistance. The business or nonprofit must employ 50 people or fewer. Visit the program website for more information and to find a participating credit union accepting applications.
Rent and mortgage assistance program for Hawai‘i Island families
Six nonprofit organizations will accept applications from eligible families on Hawai‘i Island to provide rent and mortgage assistance. The application period will begin on Monday, August 24. Refer to this recent newsletter from Hawaiian Community Assets for more information.
Waimea Midweek Market offers online shopping
Patrons of the Waimea Midweek Market on Hawai‘i Island may place their weekly orders online by Monday at noon for in-person pick up on Wednesday from 9:30–11 a.m. at Pukalani Stables. Contact Cindy Becky at waimeamidweekmarket@gmail.com with questions.
Apply to Kupu’s ‘Āina & Innovation Workforce Hawai‘i program
Kupu’s ʻĀina and Innovation Workforce Hawaiʻi program is a new initiative that provides temporary employment for those who are interested in exploring environmental and sustainability-related work. The program will run from September 14 through December 15. Applications will remain open until all positions are filled. Visit the program website for more information and to apply.
Resources and networking for local food system response to COVID-19
In collaboration with the University of Kentucky and an array of food systems stakeholders, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service launched a resource website to enhance existing efforts of educational institutions, technical assistance centers, and community-based organizations that provide essential support to farmers, ranchers, and food producers across the U.S. Visit the website to access the resource library and join the listserv.
