‘Elepaio Social Services Mākeke becomes first farmers market in Hawaiʻi to offer WIC doubling

WIC participants can purchase eligible fruits, vegetables, and poi for 50% off at ʻElepaio Social Services farmers market locations. 

Participants of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) can use their eWIC card to purchase eligible fruits, vegetables, and poi for 50% off at ʻElepaio Social Services farmers’ markets, starting July 1, 2026. ʻElepaio Social Services Mākeke is the first farmers’ market in the state to implement a WIC Doubling Program. 

The WIC Doubling Program makes Hawaiʻi grown produce and poi more affordable by doubling shoppers purchasing power at ʻElepaio’s two food justice farmers' markets. Mākeke ʻIke is open every Tuesday at the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mākeke Waiʻanae is open every Saturday at the Waiʻanae Mall from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

“The cost of healthy, Hawaiʻi-grown food remains a barrier for many families,” said ʻElepaio Executive Director Alicia Higa. “Our WIC Doubling Program helps families stretch their food dollars while supporting local farmers and producers.” 

In 2008, ʻElepaio Social Services Mākeke (formerly Waiʻanae Farmers Market) became the first farmers market on Oʻahu to accept SNAP/EBT. Both market locations already implement a SNAP Doubling Program that doubles the value of shoppers' SNAP benefits. The program allows SNAP participants to purchase eligible fruits, vegetables, poi, proteins and honey at 50% off.  

“This is another step toward ensuring that families can access healthy, locally grown, and culturally rich foods,” said Higa. “Through our programs, we’re investing in a stronger and more resilient community food system.”