Domestic Violence Resources in Hawaii

Last updated September 5, 2026

If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence in Hawaii, you are not alone — and help is available across all islands. Whether you need emergency shelter, legal protection, financial assistance, or someone to talk to, a network of local and national programs is ready to support you. Safety planning can begin with a single phone call, even if you are not ready to leave your situation.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) is available 24/7 and can connect you with Hawaii-specific resources, help you safety plan, and provide confidential support in multiple languages. For local referrals to shelter, counseling, and other services on your specific island, 2-1-1 Hawaii is a free, confidential helpline staffed by trained specialists who know Hawaii's service landscape across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Hawaii Island, Molokai, and Lanai.

Survivors of domestic violence in Hawaii may also qualify for a range of practical supports — including emergency housing assistance, food benefits, healthcare coverage, and civil legal aid — that can make it safer and more financially feasible to leave an abusive situation. The sections below outline key programs and how to reach them.

Key programs in Hawaii

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Free, confidential crisis support, safety planning, and referrals to local shelters and services in Hawaii. Available by phone, text (text START to 88788), and online chat.

How to access: Call 1-800-799-7233 (TTY: 1-800-787-3224) anytime, 24/7. No need to be in immediate danger — counselors can help at any stage.

2-1-1 Hawaii

A statewide helpline connecting residents to domestic violence shelters, transitional housing, legal aid, counseling, and other social services on all Hawaiian islands.

How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone in Hawaii, available 24/7. You can also text your zip code to 898-211 or visit 211hawaii.org to search the resource database online.

Hawaii Med-QUEST Division (Medicaid)

Free or low-cost health coverage through Hawaii's Medicaid program, called Med-QUEST. Covers medical, mental health, and substance use treatment. Survivors leaving abusive households may qualify based on their own income.

How to access: Apply through the Hawaii Department of Human Services at mybenefits.hawaii.gov, by calling the Med-QUEST office at 1-800-316-8005, or by visiting a DHS benefits office on your island.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) — Hawaii DHS

Monthly food assistance benefits (EBT card) to help survivors and their children afford groceries after leaving or during a domestic violence situation. Expedited processing is available for households with little or no income.

How to access: Apply through the Hawaii Department of Human Services at mybenefits.hawaii.gov or visit a local DHS office. 2-1-1 Hawaii can help you locate the nearest office on your island.

HUD Continuum of Care — Emergency & Transitional Housing

Federally funded emergency shelter and transitional housing programs in Hawaii specifically for survivors of domestic violence. Local CoC-funded organizations provide safe, confidential shelter locations that are not publicly listed for safety reasons.

How to access: Do not search for shelter addresses online — call the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) or 2-1-1 Hawaii (dial 2-1-1) to be safely connected to a shelter with current availability on your island.

Domestic Violence Resources resources for Hawaii

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Nationwide

24/7 confidential support, safety planning, and local referrals for those affected by relationship abuse.

1-800-799-7233
Visit

StrongHearts Native Helpline

Nationwide

Culturally appropriate domestic and sexual violence support for Native Americans and Alaska Natives.

1-844-762-8483
Visit

loveisrespect

Nationwide

Support for young people to prevent and end dating abuse. Call, text (LOVEIS to 22522), or chat.

1-866-331-9474
Visit
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