Senior Centers in Hawaii

Senior Centers in Hawaii: A Practical, People-First Guide for Kūpuna and Caregivers

Last updated: August 2025

This guide brings together official, trustworthy resources to help you find and use senior centers and kupuna services across the Hawaiian Islands. Links go to state, county, federal, and well-established community sources so you can verify details directly.

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Key Takeaways

• Senior centers in Hawaii offer social activities, fitness, meals, health education, caregiver support, and referrals to benefits. Many services are free or low-cost, with donations welcomed.
• Start with the Hawaii Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) to find senior centers and programs near you. You can call 808-643-ADRC (2372) or use the statewide directory online.
  • Visit the statewide ADRC directory: Hawaii ADRC “Find Services” directory
• Each county runs its own Area Agency on Aging (AAA). They coordinate local senior centers, meal sites, transportation, classes, and caregiver support.
• Popular Hawaiʻi programs you’ll see mentioned a lot include Kupuna Care, Family Caregiver Support, Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, congregate meals, and paratransit rides to centers.
• Verify schedules before you go. Class times, meal service, and locations can change, especially due to weather or facility updates.
• If you’re low-income, disabled, a veteran, Native Hawaiian, LGBTQ+, or living in a rural area, there are specific supports for you. See the inclusive resources section below.
• Beware of scams around Medicare, “free” genetic testing, and “benefit review” cold calls. When in doubt, call your county AAA, Hawaiʻi SHIP (Medicare counseling), or the ADRC.

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If You Need Emergency Help

• Call 911 for any immediate medical, fire, or police emergency.
• Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline; in Hawaiʻi, calls route to Hawaii CARES 988.
  • Learn more at the Hawaii CARES 988 website
• For urgent help arranging services for older adults or people with disabilities (non-emergency), contact the Hawaii ADRC:
  • Statewide: 808-643-ADRC (2372) or visit the Hawaii ADRC website
• To report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult, contact Hawaii Adult Protective Services (APS):
  • See reporting options and numbers on the Hawaii APS page
• For disaster updates and shelter information: Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA)

Quick help directory (save or print)

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What Hawaii Senior Centers Offer (and what to expect)

Senior centers (often called kupuna centers) are community gathering places where older adults can socialize, stay active, eat together, learn, and get connected to services. Centers are run by counties, parks departments, non-profits, and community partners. Most services are supported by the federal Older Americans Act (OAA), state funds, county funds, and donations.

Typical offerings:

• Social connection: clubs, ukulele and hula, arts and crafts, language groups, book exchanges
• Fitness and wellness: walking groups, chair yoga, tai chi, low-impact aerobics, blood pressure checks
• Nutrition: congregate meals at the center; referrals to home-delivered meals if you qualify
• Benefits help: SNAP (food), Medicaid (QUEST Integration), Medicare counseling, energy or rental help referrals
• Education: fall-prevention, diabetes self-management, chronic disease workshops
• Caregiver support: respite options, support groups, skills classes
• Transportation: bus and paratransit information, ride coordination to and from centers

Why it matters, backed by evidence:

• OAA-funded senior centers are proven to reduce isolation and improve health for older adults by offering nutrition, activity, and connection supports. See the Administration for Community Living’s overview of OAA programs.
• For safe physical activity guidelines, see the CDC’s recommendations for older adults.

Official sources:

• Administration for Community Living (ACL) – OAA nutrition and supportive services
• CDC – Physical Activity for Older Adults

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How to Find a Senior Center Near You in Hawaii

Use this simple path. If step 1 doesn’t work for you, try step 2, and so on.

1. Call the Hawaii ADRC (808-643-ADRC) or search online
   • Use the ADRC “Find Services” directory to locate senior centers, meal sites, caregiver programs, and transportation near your ZIP code: Hawaii ADRC directory
2. Contact your County Area Agency on Aging (AAA)
   • Oʻahu (Honolulu) – Elderly Affairs Division (EAD): Honolulu Elderly Affairs Division and Honolulu ADRC
   • Hawaiʻi County – Office of Aging: Hawaiʻi County Office of Aging
   • Maui County – Office on Aging (Kaunoa Senior Services/Kaunoa classes): Maui County Office on Aging and Kaunoa Senior Services
   • Kauaʻi – Agency on Elderly Affairs: Kauaʻi Agency on Elderly Affairs
3. Check county Parks & Recreation senior programs
   • Oʻahu Parks & Recreation kupuna programs: Honolulu Parks & Recreation — Senior Programs
   • Hawaiʻi County Parks & Recreation (Elderly Activities Division): Hawaii County Parks & Recreation — Elderly Activities
   • Maui County (Kaunoa classes, leisure travel, congregate meals): Kaunoa Senior Services
   • Kauaʻi County Neighborhood Centers: The Kauaʻi Bus and Kauaʻi County resources; call AEA for current meal site info
4. Well-established community centers
   • Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center (Oʻahu), managed by Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi and partners: Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center
     Note: Always check current hours and program schedules directly.

If you prefer phone help, ask the ADRC for “options counseling.” They can screen your needs and connect you to a center and other supports.

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Who Can Use Hawaii Senior Centers? Eligibility, Sign-up, and Costs

• Age: Many centers welcome adults 60+. Some allow 55+ or all adults for certain classes. OAA-funded nutrition and supportive services are primarily for age 60+ and eligible caregivers. Check with your county AAA.
• Residency: You generally need to live in the county where the center operates, but visitors may join some activities if space allows.
• Paperwork: For new members, bring a photo ID and basic contact details. For benefits help, bring Medicare/Medicaid cards, proof of income if asked (for needs-based programs), and emergency contacts.
• Costs:
  • Congregate meals often request a voluntary donation from those age 60+, with a set fee for younger guests.
  • Fitness and special classes may have small fees.
  • OAA services cannot deny you service because of inability to pay. Donations help keep programs going. See ACL OAA guidance.
• Transportation: Ask about shuttle options or paratransit eligibility if you have mobility limits. On Oʻahu, learn about TheHandi-Van; other counties have similar programs (see transport table below).

Reality check: Popular classes and meal sites can fill up. Call ahead, arrive early, and get on waitlists when offered. If you have dietary restrictions, ask in advance—most sites try to accommodate but can’t always meet every need.

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Core Programs You’ll See (What they do and how to use them)

• Congregate Meals (OAA Title III-C1)
  Hot, nutritionally balanced meals served at community sites. Good for social connection. Some sites offer nutrition education or health checks alongside meals. Ask your county AAA for locations and times. See ACL nutrition program overview.
• Home-Delivered Meals (OAA Title III-C2)
  For homebound older adults. Delivered several times a week depending on county and funding. Eligibility screening is required. Start with your county AAA or ADRC.
• Kupuna Care (State-funded)
  Helps older adults who are not eligible for other programs with services like personal care, homemaker help, adult day care, transportation, and more. Details and referral through your county AAA. See Hawaii Executive Office on Aging: Kupuna Care.
• Family Caregiver Support Program (OAA Title III-E)
  Offers caregiver training, counseling, support groups, respite options, and referrals. Start with your county AAA. Learn more via the Hawaii Executive Office on Aging Family Caregiver Support Program.
• Kupuna Caregivers Program (State-funded)
  Supports employed family caregivers of older adults with respite services during work hours. Administered by the Executive Office on Aging. See program details at the EOA Kupuna Caregivers Program page. Funding levels and rules can change; confirm current status with your AAA.
• SHIP (Hawaiʻi State Health Insurance Assistance Program)
  Free Medicare counseling to help you compare plans, understand bills, and spot scams. Visit Hawaii SHIP.
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
  Independent advocates for residents in nursing homes and care homes. They can help investigate and resolve complaints. Learn more at the Hawaii Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
  Provides vouchers for eligible older adults to buy fresh, local produce from approved farmers’ markets. Administered in Hawaiʻi through state partners; check the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s SFMNP information.
• SNAP (Food Stamps)
  Monthly benefits to buy groceries. Many farmers’ markets in Hawaiʻi accept SNAP and offer doubled dollars programs when available. Apply at Hawaii DHS SNAP.
• Legal Help
  Legal Aid Society of Hawaiʻi offers help with public benefits, housing, consumer issues, and more. See Legal Aid Society of Hawaiʻi.

Official sources and portals:

• Hawaii Executive Office on Aging (EOA)
• Hawaii ADRC
• Hawaii SHIP
• ACL – OAA programs overview
• Hawaii DHS SNAP
• Hawaii Department of Agriculture – SFMNP
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman (Hawaii DOH)

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The County Landscape at a Glance

Use this table to jump straight to your county’s main contacts and find senior centers and meal sites.

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Transportation to and from Senior Centers

Getting there can be half the battle. Here’s where to look for rides, eligibility, and reduced fares.

Tips:

• If you use a mobility device (walker, cane, wheelchair), tell the scheduler.
• Ask your senior center staff if they coordinate group rides for classes or meals.
• For ADA paratransit eligibility, you’ll need an application and, sometimes, a healthcare provider’s verification. Get forms from the transit agency links above.

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Meals and Nutrition (Hawaiʻi options)

• Congregate meals: Served at senior centers and community sites during the week. Call the AAA in your county for site lists and times.
• Home-delivered meals: If you’re mostly homebound, ask for an assessment through your county AAA.
• Farmers’ markets produce vouchers (SFMNP): See the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s SFMNP page for voucher info and participating markets.
• SNAP: Apply at the Hawaii DHS SNAP page. If you need help applying, ask your senior center staff or Legal Aid Society of Hawaiʻi.
• Food banks: For additional groceries when needed, see Hawaii Foodbank (Oʻahu and Kauaʻi) and The Food Basket (Hawaiʻi Island) and Maui Food Bank (Maui County).

Helpful links:

• ACL Nutrition Services (background on how congregate/home-delivered meals work)
• Hawaii Department of Agriculture – SFMNP
• Hawaii DHS SNAP
• Hawaii Foodbank – programs (including Senior Food Box/CSFP on participating islands)
• The Food Basket (Hawaiʻi Island)
• Maui Food Bank

Note: Food box programs (like CSFP) and SFMNP vary by island and funding year. Always confirm current availability directly.

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Health, Wellness, and Prevention

• Fitness classes: Tai chi, balance classes, and chair-based workouts help reduce falls risk. For evidence-based programs, ask your AAA about “A Matter of Balance” and similar classes.
• Screenings: Many centers host blood pressure and vision/hearing screenings.
• Education: Diabetes self-management and chronic disease workshops are often offered through county partners.
• Immunizations: Check with your healthcare provider or the Hawaii Department of Health for vaccine guidance, including flu and COVID-19 information.

Official sources:

• CDC – Older Adult Fall Prevention
• Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) – Immunization Branch

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Caregiver Help and Respite

• Family Caregiver Support Program (OAA): Counseling, support groups, and short-term respite. Start with your AAA.
• Kupuna Caregivers Program: Helps employed caregivers cover respite while at work. See Hawaii EOA’s Kupuna Caregivers page for current details and how to apply.
• Adult day care/day health: Structured daytime programs with activities and supervision. Ask your AAA for licensed providers on your island.
• Training and benefits checks: Caregivers can get help reviewing Medicare or Medicaid coverage through Hawaii SHIP and county options counselors.

Links:

• Hawaii EOA – Family Caregiver Support Program
• Hawaii EOA – Kupuna Caregivers Program
• Hawaii SHIP (Medicare counseling)

Reality check: Respite slots can be limited. Get on waitlists early and ask about temporary support options during gaps.

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Benefits and Insurance Help

• Medicare: Compare plans, understand Extra Help (Part D), and appeal denials with Hawaiʻi SHIP.
  • Visit Hawaii SHIP
  • Official Medicare information: Medicare.gov
• Medicaid (QUEST Integration): For those who qualify based on income and medical need.
  • Learn and apply at Med-QUEST Division (Hawaii DHS)
• Social Security retirement, disability, and survivor benefits:
  • SSA official site: Social Security Administration
• Energy, rent, or food help: Ask your center to refer you to county programs, or dial 2-1-1 to reach Aloha United Way 211 for community services.

Official links:

• Hawaii SHIP
• Med-QUEST (Hawaii DHS)
• Social Security Administration
• Aloha United Way 211

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Avoiding Scams and Staying Safe

• Don’t share your Medicare or Social Security number with anyone who calls you unexpectedly.
• Be careful with “free” medical equipment offers or genetic testing.
• Check charities before donating.

Report or learn more:

• Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs – Office of Consumer Protection
• Federal Trade Commission – Report Fraud

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Inclusive Services: Tailored Supports for Different Communities

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• Ask your AAA or center about LGBTQ+-affirming social groups and support.
• National resources you can use from here in Hawaiʻi:
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders): programs, hotlines, and caregiver resources
  • SAGE National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging
• Local connections: Hawaiʻi LGBT Legacy Foundation maintains a community calendar and links to services; ask about kupuna-friendly events.

Links:

• SAGE USA
• LGBTQ+ Aging Center (SAGE)
• Hawaiʻi LGBT Legacy Foundation

Veteran Seniors

• State Office of Veterans’ Services (OVS) can help with VA claims, benefits, and referrals.
• VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (primary care, specialty care, mental health; clinics across islands).
• Vet Centers (like Honolulu Vet Center) offer counseling for veterans and family members.

Links:

• Hawaii Office of Veterans’ Services (OVS)
• VA Pacific Islands Health Care System
• Honolulu Vet Center (find other Vet Centers from there)

Disabled Seniors and Those with Mobility Limits

• Apply for ADA paratransit for door-to-door rides to senior centers and medical appointments.
• Ask the AAA about home-based services and equipment.
• For disability rights and advocacy: Hawaii Disability Rights Center.

Links:

• TheHandi-Van (Oʻahu)
• Maui County Paratransit
• Hele-On Paratransit (Hawaiʻi County info via Hele-On)
• The Kauaʻi Bus Paratransit
• Hawaii Disability Rights Center

Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Kūpuna

• Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) provides programs and grants that may support kūpuna well-being, housing, and health access.
• Papa Ola Lōkahi coordinates the Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems across islands—contact them to find the Native Hawaiian health provider nearest you for cultural health services, classes, and referrals.

Links:

• Office of Hawaiian Affairs
• Papa Ola Lōkahi (Native Hawaiian Health)

Rural Seniors and Families (Remote/Neighbor Island Communities)

• Ask your AAA about mobile services, satellite meal sites, and virtual classes.
• Telehealth can reduce travel: check with your health plan and care providers for covered telehealth options.
• If internet access is a barrier, ask about public Wi‑Fi spots or Lifeline phone/internet discounts through the FCC Lifeline program.

Links:

• Hawaii ADRC (for local site lists)
• FCC Lifeline (discounted phone/internet)

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How to Choose a Good Senior Center (Checklist)

Use this quick checklist when you visit or call:

• Accessibility: Are entrances, restrooms, and seating accessible?
• Transportation: Are there nearby bus stops or arranged rides?
• Activities: Do they offer what you like (music, gardening, language, weaving, exercise)?
• Meals: Days and times? Can they handle basic dietary needs?
• Safety: Are staff trained in first aid? Is there a plan for emergencies and disasters?
• Community: Do you feel welcome? Are there groups that match your interests and background?
• Staff support: Is there help with benefits, referrals, or caregiver questions?
• Costs: Are there clear posted fees or suggested donations? Any scholarships or fee waivers?

If something doesn’t fit, ask the ADRC for other centers or programs nearby.

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Sample Weekly Plan for Getting Started

• Monday: Call 808-643-ADRC and ask for the nearest senior center with congregate meals and beginner exercise.
• Tuesday: Visit the center, register, and pick up the monthly calendar.
• Wednesday: Try one fitness class and sign up for a benefits check with Hawaiʻi SHIP.
• Thursday: Ride the bus with a friend to learn the route; ask staff about paratransit if needed.
• Friday: Attend a social group (music, language, or crafts) and a fall-prevention workshop.

Tip: Bring a water bottle, list of medications, and your Medicare/Medicaid cards when you first meet with a counselor.

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Common Programs and Where to Apply (Reference Table)

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Resources by Region (Island-by-Island)

Oʻahu (City & County of Honolulu)

• Area Agency on Aging: Honolulu Elderly Affairs Division (EAD)
• ADRC portal: Honolulu ADRC and Hawaii ADRC directory
• Parks & Recreation kupuna activities: Honolulu Parks & Recreation – Senior Programs
• Medicare counseling: Hawaii SHIP
• Transportation: TheBus and TheHandi-Van
• Notable community center: Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center (confirm hours and schedule directly)

For abuse concerns in facilities, contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman. For home/community abuse concerns, see Adult Protective Services.

Hawaiʻi County (Big Island)

• Area Agency on Aging: Hawaiʻi County Office of Aging
• ADRC portal: Hawaii ADRC directory
• Elderly Activities (Parks & Rec): Hawaii County Parks & Recreation – Elderly Activities
• Transit: Hele-On Bus and paratransit info
• Food help: The Food Basket (islandwide food bank)

Ask about kupuna meal sites in Hilo, Kona, Kaʻū, Puna, and Kohala, and ride options between rural areas and town centers.

Maui County (Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi)

• Area Agency on Aging: Maui County Office on Aging
• ADRC portal: Hawaii ADRC directory
• Senior programming: Kaunoa Senior Services (classes, leisure travel, meal sites)
• Transit: Maui County Public Transit and paratransit
• Food help: Maui Food Bank

Check Kaunoa for the latest locations and schedules, especially if facilities are undergoing repairs or relocations.

Kauaʻi County

• Area Agency on Aging: Kauaʻi Agency on Elderly Affairs
• ADRC portal: Hawaii ADRC directory
• Neighborhood Centers (activities/meal sites): Contact AEA for current schedules
• Transit: The Kauaʻi Bus (with paratransit)

Ask AEA for islandwide calendars of classes and meal service times.

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Realities and Tips (What folks tell us on the ground)

• Arrive 10–15 minutes early for meals; sites can fill up.
• Bring small cash for optional class fees or suggested meal donations.
• If hearing is a challenge, sit closer to instructors and ask about assistive listening devices.
• For language access (ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, Ilocano, Tagalog, Japanese, etc.), tell staff your needs ahead of time. State agencies must offer reasonable language access. See Hawaii Office of Language Access.

Link:

• Hawaii Office of Language Access

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What’s the difference between a senior center and an Adult Day Care program?
A: Senior centers are drop-in community hubs for social, wellness, and educational activities—usually not medical and not continuous supervision. Adult Day Care/Day Health programs offer structured daytime supervision and personal care; some provide health services. Ask your AAA for licensed providers and check costs and subsidies.

Q2: Are meals at senior centers free?
A: For adults 60+, meals are typically offered with a suggested donation. Guests under 60 usually pay a set fee. No one 60+ can be denied a meal for inability to donate. Confirm details at your local site. See ACL Nutrition Services.

Q3: I don’t drive. How can I get to a center?
A: Try public transit with reduced senior fares, or apply for ADA paratransit if you have a disability that limits bus use. Some centers coordinate group rides. See transport links for your island.

Q4: Can a caregiver go with me?
A: Yes. Caregivers are usually welcome. Ask about caregiver support groups and respite options through the Family Caregiver Support Program and Kupuna Caregivers Program.

Q5: Do I need to be low-income to join a senior center?
A: No. Most centers are open to all older adults. Some services (like SNAP or home-delivered meals) are based on need and may require eligibility screening.

Q6: How do I get help understanding my Medicare plan?
A: Contact Hawaiʻi SHIP for free, unbiased counseling. They’ll help compare plans, check costs, and watch for scams.

Q7: I live in a remote area. Are there any services for me?
A: Yes. Ask the ADRC about satellite meal sites, mobile classes, and telehealth options. If internet is an issue, check the FCC Lifeline program for discounted phone/internet.

Q8: What if I see neglect or abuse?
A: If someone is in danger, call 911. To report suspected abuse of a vulnerable adult, contact Adult Protective Services. For care home or nursing home concerns, contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman.

Q9: Where can I get fresh produce vouchers?
A: Check the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) via the Hawaii Department of Agriculture. Availability varies by season and island.

Q10: I speak limited English. Can I still get services?
A: Yes. State and county agencies provide language access. Ask your center for interpretation or translated materials. See Hawaii Office of Language Access.

Q11: Are there centers that understand LGBTQ+ needs?
A: Many centers welcome everyone. Ask your AAA for LGBTQ+-friendly groups. For national LGBTQ+ aging resources, see SAGE and the SAGE National Resource Center.

Q12: How do I apply for Kupuna Care?
A: Start with your county AAA. They’ll do an assessment and explain available services. See the Hawaii EOA Kupuna Care page for an overview.

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References and Official Sources (clickable)

Statewide and Federal:

• Hawaii Executive Office on Aging (EOA): https://health.hawaii.gov/eoa/
• Hawaii Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC): https://www.hawaiiadrc.org/
• Administration for Community Living (Older Americans Act programs): https://acl.gov/programs
• CDC – Older Adults and Physical Activity: https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/older_adults/index.htm
• Hawaii Department of Health – Immunization Branch: https://health.hawaii.gov/docd/vaccines-immunizations/
• Hawaii Office of Language Access: https://health.hawaii.gov/ola/
• Hawaii Adult Protective Services (APS): https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/ssd/home/adult-protective-services/
• Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA): https://dod.hawaii.gov/hiema/
• Hawaii SHIP (Medicare counseling): https://www.hawaiiship.org/
• Med-QUEST (Hawaii Medicaid): https://medquest.hawaii.gov/
• Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov/
• Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov/
• Hawaii DHS SNAP: https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/snap/
• Hawaii Department of Agriculture – SFMNP: https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/add/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program/
• Aloha United Way 211: https://www.auw211.org/
• Hawaii Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://health.hawaii.gov/eoa/programs-long-term-care-ombudsman/
• Hawaii CARES 988: https://hicares.hawaii.gov/
• Hawaii Office of Veterans’ Services: https://ovs.hawaii.gov/
• VA Pacific Islands Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/pacific-islands-health-care/
• Honolulu Vet Center (find Vet Centers): https://www.va.gov/honolulu-vet-center/
• Hawaii Disability Rights Center: https://www.hawaiidisabilityrights.org/
• FTC – Report Fraud: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
• Hawaii DCCA –