Schatz, Hirono Announce Over $3 Million for Non-Profit Organizations in Hawaii

Press Release

U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii) today announced U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) grants totaling $3,110,862 to seven Hawaii organizations to support programs that promote asset building, financial literacy and child care for indigenous communities.

"Quality child care and early education are two crucial needs for many of Hawaii's families," Senator Schatz said. "For Native Hawaiian communities coping with financial and educational disparities, meeting these needs can be even more difficult. These funds will help us overcome these challenges by giving parents the peace of mind they need while at work, and providing our young children with a better shot at success."

"This funding allows non-profit organizations to provide needed services to indigenous families," said Senator Hirono, who shared today's announcement with conferees at the 13th Annual Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement Convention in Honolulu. "Quality child care, improving financial literacy and building financial assets work hand-in-hand to strengthen the economic security and self-sufficiency of our families."

The grants announced today are a part of HHS's Social and Economic Development Strategies (SEDS), Assets for Independence, Child Care and Development Block Grant, and Community Services Block Grant programs. The SEDS program was created to promote economic and social self-sufficiency for indigenous communities across the U.S. and Pacific Islands, and provides funding for projects that promote indigenous cultures, local economies and community well-being. The Assets for Independence program helps low-income Americans develop economic self-sufficiency. The Child Care and Development Block Grant provides assistance for child care services within states and indigenous communities. The Community Services Block Grant helps low-income communities meet a variety of community needs.

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