Federal Grant Award Summary

The Hawaii Disability Rights Center received a $188,180 formula grant from the Department of Health and Human Services Administration on Disabilities (DHHS AOD) under the Voting Access for Individuals with Disabilities-Grants for Protection and Advocacy Systems program (CFDA 93.618). The award, effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2030, funds comprehensive voting access initiatives designed to ensure full electoral participation for individuals with disabilities throughout Hawaii.

The Center will deliver education, training, and direct assistance to voters with disabilities on ballot access, polling place accessibility, and accessible voting equipment. Services also include training for election officials and poll workers on disability rights and best practices; advocacy and technical assistance related to Help America Vote Act (HAVA) implementation; voter registration assistance; guidance on physical accessibility improvements to polling locations; and support for individuals filing voting-related complaints and pursuing grievance procedures. As Hawaii's designated Protection and Advocacy System, the organization will conduct these activities as part of its broader mission to protect the legal and human rights of vulnerable populations, including individuals with developmental disabilities, serious mental illness, and traumatic brain injuries.