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FAQs: Homeless Programs

I heard there are different types of shelters.  I see homeless on the streets and would like to contact someone to help them.  What are the types of shelters?  Who can I call to help the homeless on the streets?

Outreach agencies can provide help to the homeless on the streets.  An emergency shelter is typically a shelter that is designed to provide temporary shelter and appropriate services to homeless families and individuals for up to six weeks.  An emergency shelter is characterized by its short term of stay, often nightly, and walk-in nature.  Cost to stay in an emergency shelter is usually assumed by the provider operating the shelter.  A transitional shelter is designed to provide temporary shelter and appropriate services to homeless families and individuals for up to twenty-four months.  The cost to stay in the shelter depends on the shelter you are applying to, but generally it is based on the size of the unit you occupy and your monthly income.  Listed below are the agencies you can contact for specific assistance for the homeless.

Outreach Agencies:

Emergency Shelters:

Transitional Shelters:

Shelter for Special Needs Persons (Families with HIV):

Do the homeless elderly have a separate shelter they can go to?

There is a shelter for the elderly named Kulaokahua, which is managed by Housing Solutions.  To be considered elderly, a person must be at least 62 years old.  You may call 808-599-5759 for more information.

I am homeless and a single parent with two children.  Where can I go for help?

Listed below are agencies running shelters for families:

Some of the homeless I see appear to be mentally impaired.  Who can I contact to get them some help?

You may contact the State of Hawaii, Department of Health, Adult Mental Health Division (AMHD) ACCESS LINE at 808-832-3100.  On the neighbor islands, you may call toll-free at 1-800-753-6879.  The AMHD Access Program provides a team of trained and experienced professionals who provide help and intervene in times of mental health crisis.

I am a homeless single person and I don't have a job.  Is the Institute for Human Services (IHS) the only shelter I can go to?

Listed below are agencies running shelters for singles:

I am being evicted from my rental home because I didn't pay my rent.  Can someone help me with my rent payment?

The Salvation Army Family Services Office (808-591-5605) on Oahu, and Office for Social Ministry (808-935-3050) on Big Island administer an Emergency Grants Program, which provides emergency financial assistance to those who need immediate financial help with back rent, utilities, and food to prevent homelessness.  You may call the agencies for more information, however you must meet the criteria to qualify.

What is being done for the homeless veterans in Hawaii?

The Veterans' Administration Healthcare for the Homeless provides assistance to homeless veterans.  You may call 808-433-0335 for more information.

For more detailed information on HPHA's Homeless Programs, go to

HPHA Homeless Programs Information

Homeless Point-In-Time Count Report, 2007

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