HWLF Grants Program

HWLF Grants Program

Organization: Hawaii Women's Legal Foundation (HWLF)

Mission Alignment: Supports the rights of and enhances the welfare of women and children across the State of Hawaii

Geographic Scope: Hawaii statewide; neighbor island applications are encouraged

Award Type: "Micro" grants typically ranging from $500 to $5,000

Funding Priorities

HWLF's primary criteria in considering funding applications include:
• (1) Improving women and children's access to the legal system
• (2) Reducing child abuse
• (3) Reducing domestic violence
• (4) Reducing sexual abuse
• (5) Increasing financial independence
• (6) Improving women and children's health, education and welfare

What They Fund

Grants fund a variety of local efforts, including:
• Programs providing women and children access to the legal system
• Health services
• Educational opportunities
• Project-based funding
• "Jump-start" funding to help organizations launch new initiatives

What They Don't Fund

• HWLF prefers not to award funds for operational expenses
• Preference is for project-by-project funding rather than general operating support

Background

Over the last 30 years, HWLF has provided grants to numerous local nonprofits and organizations aligned with its mission. The organization has grown its endowment through fundraising activities while distributing funds to worthy Hawaii organizations. Grants are funded with the proceeds of the previous year's fundraiser.

Application Deadlines

• Spring deadline: First Friday in April (2026: April 3, 2026 - TODAY)
• Fall deadline: First Friday in October (2026: October 2, 2026)

Dates may vary year to year.

Contact Information

Grant Co-Chairs:
• Zale Okazaki (zale.okazaki@hawadvocate.com)
• Dianne Winter Brookins (HWLFGrants@gmail.com)

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 2576
Honolulu, HI 96803

Email: hawaiiwomenslegalfoundation@gmail.com