Formula Grant H161A260012

Federal Grant Award Summary

The Hawaii Disability Rights Center received a $131,917 Formula Grant award from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services under the Rehabilitation Services Client Assistance Program (CFDA 84.161) for the period of October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. As Hawaii's designated Protection and Advocacy system, the organization delivers comprehensive client assistance services that advise and inform individuals with disabilities about available benefits and rights under the Rehabilitation Act. The program provides advocacy, counseling, and legal representation to help clients navigate vocational rehabilitation and independent living service systems, enabling them to effectively understand their rehabilitation service options and resolve potential disputes with service providers.

Through this funding, the Hawaii Disability Rights Center maintains critical support services for individuals with disabilities throughout Hawaii, including those with developmental disabilities, serious mental illness, serious emotional disturbance, and traumatic brain injuries. The Client Assistance Program services address barriers to accessing rehabilitation benefits and support vulnerable populations in exercising their legal rights within the rehabilitation services system. As a formula grant awarded under the statutory allocation methodology, the funding supports the state-level operations of this federally mandated assistance program designed to serve clients and client-applicants seeking guidance on rehabilitation service benefits and entitlements.