WAIPAHU, Hawaiʻi (Island News) — Hundreds of Hawaiʻi residents lined up Friday morning for an emergency food distribution in Waipahu as the ongoing government shutdown continues to impact families across the state.
The Hawaiʻi Foodbank said registration for the event filled up fast — with all 400 available spots claimed within just three hours. Many of those who came were either furloughed federal workers or families affected by the suspension of SNAP benefits.
“It’s so sad we have to get to this point,” one participant said, reflecting on the growing financial strain. Another added, “Yeah, it’ll help me and my family and a lot of other families that need it. Both husband and wife aren’t getting paid, so this helps since funding is running out.”…