HI Chore Services Program

Caregivers often experience stress and anxiety due to the significant emotional and physical toll of taking care of family members. Many family caregivers also deal with chronic illness, making daily care a considerable burden. If you live in Hawaii, there is help. The Hawaii Department of Human Services offers several programs to support seniors and their caregivers.

What is the Hawaii Chore Services Program?

The Chore Services Program provides housekeeping services to eligible adults so they can remain in the community. The program is available throughout Hawaii and offers housecleaning, laundering, shopping, and meal preparation services. This program has been a lifesaver for many Hawaii residents by helping eligible adults stay independent and live safely in their homes for as long as possible. The program prevents moving adults to nursing homes or assisted living facilities, which can be expensive and take away their independence.

Goals of the Hawaii Chore Services Program

1. Promote senior independence: The program allows seniors to maintain their daily routines and avoid moving to a nursing home by providing help with housework.
2. Support family caregivers: The program can give you a break, reduce anxiety, and prevent caregiver burnout.

Services offered under the Hawaii Chore Services Program

The program provides support without requiring around-the-clock care, allowing family caregivers to rest from the constant demands of cooking and cleaning. Services include:

• Cleaning: Vacuuming, dusting, mopping floors, and cleaning bathrooms.
• Laundry: Washing, drying, and ironing clothes.
• Shopping: Picking up groceries and other essentials.
• Meal preparation: Helping plan meals, grocery shop, and prepare simple dishes.

Eligibility for the Hawaii Chore Services Program

To receive services, individuals must meet specific criteria:

• Age: There is no minimum age requirement.
• Residency: Your care recipient must be a legal resident of Hawaii.
• Financial requirements: You must receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or financial assistance from the Department of Human Services.
• Functional requirements: Your care recipient must need help with basic household tasks to continue living safely at home.

Care recipients receiving help from Medicaid Health Plans (aged, blind, or disabled) are not qualified. Services are given without regard to finances in adult protective service situations.

How to apply for the Hawaii Chore Services Program

If you qualify, the application process is simple:

1. Contact your local Department of Human Services office: You can find contact information online or call (808) 587-7067 on Oahu or toll-free at 1-888-999-7999 from the neighboring islands.
2. Schedule an assessment: A caseworker will meet with you to determine your needs and eligibility for the program.
3. Develop a service plan: If you qualify, you'll work with the caseworker to create a plan outlining the specific services you'll receive.
4. Start receiving services: Once your plan is approved, a qualified chore service provider will be assigned to help you with your housework.

Required documents for application

You will need proof of age, residency, income, and any documentation of disability or need for assistance. The Department of Human Services will provide a complete list. A case manager will answer your questions and provide additional information.

Submit your application and documents to your local Department of Human Services office.

A note from Givers

The Hawaii Chore Services Program offers essential assistance with housework, allowing seniors to stay independent and maintain a high quality of life. Whether cleaning, laundry, or other household tasks, the Chore Services Program will match you with a trained and trustworthy aide who can lend a hand. Contact your local Department of Human Services office today to learn more about the program and other caregiver support programs in Hawaii.