HI HB2509

Establishes a 36-month Homelessness Sanctuary Pilot Program in Honolulu to provide a safe location for unhoused women and children under age 10 to reside and access services.

Requires the designated location to include shelter tents, vehicle parking with overnight sleeping permitted, restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, lockers, waste disposal, perimeter fencing, and onsite security.

Mandates provision of at least one meal per day, allows residents to bring pet animals, and establishes volunteer and employment opportunities at minimum wage for cleanup and maintenance tasks.

Directs surveys of residents to identify additional needed services including medical care, mental health services, domestic abuse treatment, childcare, job training, and transportation to schools and employment.

Appropriates $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2026-2027 to the Department of Human Services, with funds available through June 30, 2029, and requires annual legislative reports on program progress and outcomes.