Maui legislators encourage residents to make use of state support programs during the COVID-19 crisis.?

Eligible residents can apply for unemployment insurance, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF), medical insurance and child care support.

The Maui Legislative Delegation, which includes Rep. Angus McKelvey and Sen. Roz Baker representing the West Side, realizes that many families have lost jobs and sources of income during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Residents should apply for government aid during this challenging time.

“During this period of economic hardship, we want to ensure that those affected by COVID-19 are able to access all available resources. We hope that these programs will be able to provide the assistance needed,” Maui lawmakers announced last week.

“We understand that each program has expanded exponentially within the last few months, and that many have experienced frustration and difficulty in securing aid. However, please be assured that everyone is working together to help those in need. Our offices are sharing all available information as soon as it becomes available.”

Sen. Baker’s office may be reached at senbaker@capitol.hawaii.gov (808) 586-6070. To contact McKelvey’s office, e-mail repmckelvey@capitol.hawaii.gov or call (808) 586-6160.

Maui Mayor Michael Victorino is expected to make announcements soon on the county’s short-term plans for May.

For now, the Maui Legislative Delegation asks that residents “stay home, stay strong, and use these resources to help support their families.

“These forms of assistance allow families the economic, health care and food support to remain at home until… the state can safely reopen, and they can return to work.”