Building your credit is one of the most important steps toward stability and independence. A credit score isn’t just a number — it can affect your ability to rent a home, secure reliable transportation, and even get a job.
This program is currently only available to individuals impacted by the August 8, 2023 Maui Wildfires
Like the outrigger float (ama) that gives a canoe balance, the Ama Loan Program is designed to keep you steady on your financial journey and help you move forward with confidence.
Why Apply?
With the Ama Loan Program, you can possibly:
- Boost your credit score with on-time payments reported to the credit bureaus
- Gain financial skills through a financial literacy course and counseling sessions
- Grow your savings with up to $250 in bonus matching funds
- Rebuild stability after the challenges of the Maui wildfires
How It Works
If you qualify, you’ll receive a $500 loan to use for your needs. You’ll:
- Complete a financial empowerment course
- Work with a HUD-certified financial counselor
- Repay the loan in monthly installments of $42.80 over 12 months
Payments are automatically deducted from your account to ensure they’re on time. Each payment is reported to the credit bureaus, helping to build your credit history.
The Extra Reward
If you have a Savings Account and successfully complete the program — making all payments on time and meeting all requirements — and you’ll be eligible for a 50% savings match, up to $250.
That means if you save $500, we’ll add $250 — a direct reward for your commitment.
Who Can Apply
This program is available only to individuals impacted by the August 8, 2023 Maui Wildfires and is limited to the first 100 qualified applicants. Apply early to secure your spot.
Program Requirements
To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Show proof of income (ability to repay)
- Have a savings account in your name
- No late payments or bankruptcy discharge on your credit report in the last 3 months
- Agree to work with a HUD-certified counselor for the duration of the program
- Complete a Financial Empowerment course
- Set up automatic payments (ACH/Autopay)
- Have a credit score of 620 or lower (priority given to these applicants)
Loan Details
| Feature | Description |
| Loan Amount | $500 |
| Loan Term | 12 Months |
| APR | 5% |
| Payment Frequency | Monthly |
| Loan Fee | None |
| Savings Match* | 50% Match up to $250 upon successful completion |
*All monthly payments must be made on time, and you must complete 5 counseling sessions (initial orientation plus quarterly check-ins).
Steps to Get Started
To qualify, you must:
- Submit your application.
- Hawaiian Council loan staff will review your application.
- Schedule your online financial empowerment class (if not already completed) by calling (808) 596-8155.
- If approved, sign your loan agreement.
- Receive your funds via ACH or check.
- Make your monthly payments.
- Attend quarterly check-ins with your financial counselor.
- Complete all requirements and make every payment on time.
- Receive up to $250 in savings match for your success!
Ready to start building your credit & growing your savings?
Apply now by calling (808) 596-8155 or visiting this page.
What We Do
Rent & Mortgage Relief
We can help you find the resources you need for your ʻohana to thrive -from mortage to utilities and assistance programs.
Kilohana
Kilohana is a collaborative of complementary change agents committed to fulfilling HTA’s vision and specific directives.
Community Programs
Our community programs work with members of our community to develop the skills and resources needed to thrive.
Join Our Community
Become a Hawaiian Council member to get the opportunity to join other kānaka in lifting, empowering and inspiring our lāhui.
Call us at 808-596-8155