Bridge to Hope eligibility is connected to First-to-Work participation, and enrollment at any of the 10 University of Hawaiʻi campuses, (7 Community Colleges and 3 Universities).
Quick Eligibility Checklist
These are the main eligibility points to review before contacting Bridge to Hope.
TANF Cash Assistance
You receive cash assistance through TANF.
First-to-Work
You have a First-to-Work activity requirement.
Enrolled at a ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ Campus
You are enrolled at any University of Hawaiʻi campus.
BTH Support
You want to discuss BTH on-campus employment and student support.
Important
Bridge to Hope supports both part-time and full-time enrolled students with an emphasis on completing degrees within FTW eligibility. Bridge to Hope employment, does require full-time enrollment. If you are enrolled part-time BTH still assists with campus-based support and referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Open each question below to read the answer.
Who is eligible for Bridge to Hope?
Bridge to Hope serves students who:
- receive cash assistance / TANF,
- have a First-to-Work activity requirement, and
- are enrolled at a University of Hawaiʻi campus.
BTH is available across the University of Hawaiʻi system. If you are unsure whether your current enrollment or benefit status qualifies, please contact the BTH coordinator to discuss eligibility or to plan for enrollment.
What is TANF?
TANF stands for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. In Hawaiʻi, TANF provides temporary cash assistance to eligible families and is connected to the First-to-Work program, which helps participants meet work and training requirements.
First-to-Work may also provide support related to employment, education, transportation, and other approved activities.
How do I apply for TANF or financial assistance?
You can apply for TANF and other financial assistance through Hawaiʻi DHS. The fastest option is usually the online Public Assistance Information System, also called PAIS.
You may also apply through a statewide processing center or call the Public Assistance Information Line: 1-855-643-1643.
How do I participate in BTH?
If you are a First-to-Work participant and are enrolled at a ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ campus, contact Bridge to Hope to discuss how BTH can assist you to meet FTW requirements in a way that supports your academic success; and next steps, including on-campus employment for full-time enrolled students.
- Email: bth@hawaii.edu
- Phone: (808) 956-9313
- View BTH Campus Contacts
You may also begin with the Start Here page if you were recently referred by First-to-Work.
I only receive SNAP / food benefits. Am I eligible for BTH?
No. Bridge to Hope eligibility is tied to cash assistance / TANF with a First-to-Work work requirement.
If you receive SNAP only and do not receive TANF cash assistance, you would not currently qualify for BTH. If your benefit situation changes, contact BTH to ask whether you may become eligible.
What if I am not yet enrolled at a ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ campus?
If you are interested in college but are not yet enrolled, start by exploring campus and program options, then discuss your education plan with your First-to-Work case manager. You may also contact the Bridge to Hope Coordinator to discuss options and campus-specific referrals.
You can also visit the Bridge to Hope homepage and FAQ pages for more information.
Next Steps
Use these steps to prepare for Bridge to Hope participation.
Confirm Benefits
Confirm whether you receive TANF cash assistance and have a First-to-Work work requirement.
Check Enrollment
Bridge to Hope supports both Full-time and Part-time students enrolled at a ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ Campus. But BTH employment requires full-time enrollment.
Apply if Needed
Apply for benefits through DHS if you are not currently receiving TANF cash assistance. Contact the ÌÇÐÄÊÓƵ Bridge to Hope Systemwide Coordinator to discuss First-to-Work expectations and current levels of cash assistance based on family size.
Contact BTH
Contact Bridge to Hope to discuss employment, support, and campus-specific next steps.
Helpful Links
These links can help you learn more, apply for benefits, or contact Bridge to Hope.
Start Here
Begin the Bridge to Hope process if you were referred by First-to-Work.
BTH Campus Contacts
Find the Bridge to Hope contact for your campus.
PAIS Application
Apply online for TANF, SNAP, and related financial assistance.
DHS TANF Info
Learn more about TANF through Hawaiʻi DHS.
Need Help?
Contact Bridge to Hope or call the Hawaiʻi DHS Public Assistance Information Line.
Disclaimer
This page is intended to provide general information about Bridge to Hope and First-to-Work participation. Final eligibility determinations are made by the appropriate program offices. Students should stay in contact with their First-to-Work case manager and BTH coordinator.
Follow Bridge to Hope
Stay connected with Bridge to Hope updates, student stories, and program information.
Derek Galanto
2600 Campus Road | Honolulu, HI 96822 | QLCSS 211
(808) 956-9313 | bth@hawaii.edu
Last Modified: June 2026