With money from financial aid combined with the Hawaiʻi Promise Scholarship, many students in need will not have to worry about paying for tuition. But, there are other hidden costs of attending college that many of us take for granted-- such as food, money for transportation, or appropriate clothes for an interview. Some students are forced to choose between spending money on a meal or buying bus fare to attend class.

According to a 2018 report by Wisconsin Hope Lab, 36% of university students were food insecure in the 30 days preceding the survey. This yearʻs estimate for community college students is 42%. And, housing insecurity affected 46% of community college students. The report also found that 12% of communty college students were homeless in this yearʻs survey.

Hawaiʻiʻs community colleges are stepping up to to help their students overcome such barriers so they can focus on their studies and successfully complete their degrees. Here are some examples of the work being done at the campuses:

HINET Hoʻola Ike (gift of knowledge) program
Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Community Colleges have partnered to leverage each other's resources and strengths so that Hawaii's community members may receive support for living expenses as they pursue degrees and careers. With DHS's support, students who are enrolled in the college HINET program are now receiving an average of $350 per month for food and groceries and up to $100/month for transportation expenses including gas, bus passes, or car repair expenses. Students may also be reimbursed for the cost of textbooks, training tools, test fees, program uniforms and other education or training. DHS and HINET partners also assist students with short-term needs with childcare, emergency housing, utilities, and homelessness. HINET has now expanded to WCC, LCC, HawCC and KCC with HonCC and UH Maui coming on board soon.

Students Helping Students
Various student organizations across the campuses have established support services for students in need. These operations are all student funded and operated, and supports all students who need help.
• Hanai ia Leeward (food pantry)
• ASUH-WCC Food Pantry
• Leeward CC PBL/Enactus Club "Dress for Success"

Campus Childcare Services
Childcare services are offered to students while students attend classes. These services are mostly free to students or charged on a sliding fee scale based on income.
• Hawai'i CC Children's Center
• Honolulu CC Keiki Hauʻoli Children's Center
• Kapi'olani CC Alani Children's Center
• Leeward CC Child Care Center
• Maui College - On-campus Head Start Center