The Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees has formally approved up to $6.1 million in emergency funding to support Native Hawaiian beneficiaries affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown.

The plan, approved Thursday during the board’s meeting in Hilo, will provide direct financial assistance to nearly 15,000 beneficiaries struggling to afford food and other essentials.

“When our people need help the most, OHA will be there for them,” OHA Board Chair Kaiali’i Kahele said. “We look to provide money to nearly 15,000 of our most vulnerable beneficiaries with the $6.1 million we’ve set aside to address this emergency so that they can buy food and pay for other essential household needs.”

Under the plan, OHA will distribute payments of up to $350 to kupuna aged 60 and older,

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