Fellows mentioned in this story: Billy Pieper

From HINow:

Keeping a home in Hawaiʻi can feel impossible when one storm, one setback, or one unexpected bill pushes a family behind. That is why Hawaiʻi Community Lending is shining a light on the Ho‘āmana Homeowner Assistance Program, a new resource designed to help eligible Hawaiian Home Lands lessees stay rooted on the land, even after hardships like the March 2026 Kona Low storms.

Ho‘āmana is a $10 million grant program funded by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and delivered in collaboration with Hawaiʻi Community Lending. If you qualify, grants of up to $30,000 can help cover past due essentials like mortgage payments, property taxes, utilities, HOA fees, and even certain insurance costs. The goal is simple and powerful, giving families breathing room now, so they can protect their home for the generations that come next.

Since opening in January 2026, the program has already started making an impact. Hawaiʻi Community Lending has received 64 applications statewide, assisted 18 homeowners, and disbursed $159,925 in grants so far. Even if Ho‘āmana is not the right match, HCL encourages families not to count themselves out just yet. Their team can also walk applicants through other loan options and support programs tied to Hawaiian Home Lands.

Watch at hinowdaily.com