USDA loosens SNAP for Hawaiians as grocers step up fire relief efforts

Hawaiians are still recovering from devastating wildfires that ravaged the island of Maui and displaced thousands of residents earlier this month, and grocers from across the nation have been raising funds to help them get back on their feet.  

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is also stepping in to help those in need by loosening purchase requirements under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Those receiving SNAP benefits for groceries can use the funds to purchase hot foods through Sept. 14. 

"USDA emphasized the importance of the waiver, noting that many Hawaii residents evacuated to shelters cannot store food and lack access to cooking facilities as a result," the State of Hawaii Department of Human Services said in an announcement last week.

Kroger is sending $100,000 in disaster relief to victims of the fire—$50,000 in food donations to the Maui Food Bank and a $50,000 grant to the Maui Food Bank. Kroger-owned banners Fred Meyer, King Soopers, Ralph’s, Smith’s and Food4Less are also allowing shoppers to round their purchases up to the nearest dollar and contribute the difference to disaster relief. They can also make a donation at the checkout lane. 

“The devastation caused by the wildfires in Maui is unimaginable,” Kroger Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen said in a statement. “Rescue crews and support organizations on the ground are only now assessing the impact and beginning the long road to recovery. We hope Kroger’s support will feed the spirit of those who are affected and those helping the community rebuild.” 

The Save Mart Companies has launched a fundraiser at its banners—Save Mart, Lucky and FoodMaxx—across California and Western Nevada, and The Save Mart Companies CARES Foundation has committed to match customer donations up to $10,000.  

All donations will be made to the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund. “Our hearts go out to the victims of the deadly wildfires in Maui,” said The Save Mart Companies Chief Operations Officer Donovan Ford in a statement. “This devastation is familiar to many residents in the communities we serve, and this fundraising effort is a convenient way for our shoppers to help support those faced with tremendous loss.” 

Meanwhile, food distributor and retailer SpartanNash is working with the disaster relief organization Convoy of Hope and the American Logistics Association (ALA) to send two truckloads of food and bottled water to the area. The grocer, which operates 144 stores under the banners Family Fare, Martin’s Super Markets and D&W Fresh Market, has also donate $25,000 to the Hawaii Community Foundation in collaboration with the ALA. 

“The destruction and devastation caused by wildfires in Maui is heartbreaking, said SpartanNash CEO Tony Sarsam in a statement. “As a people first company, we are dedicated to committing time and resources to communities in need. SpartanNash is proud to work with Convoy of Hope and ALA to provide essential items and comfort for residents at this dire time.” 

Texas-based grocery chain H-E-B has also reportedly donated $100,000 and 23 pallets of products to the Hawaii Food Bank. The San Antonio Express-News reports that the grocer is continuing to monitor the situation and will continue with assistance as the need arises.  

Walgreens has also stepped up to help victims of the fires through a $100,000 donation to the Maui Strong Fund. The pharmacy chain also donated $25,000 in products to the American Red Cross and $5,000 to the Na Aikane O Maui Cultural Center to assist with the recovery effort. 

Walgreens customers in Arizona, Hawaii and Washington state will be able to donate directly to the American Red Cross Maui Fund at the checkout, the company said in a press release.