Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Find quick answers and helpful links for student parents at UH Mānoa. Click a question below to expand the answer.
What is SP@M?
SP@M (Student Parents at Mānoa) assists student parents (students with children) enrolled at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. We can help with on-campus and community referrals to support student parents (moms and dads) as they work toward their educational goals.
SP@M focuses on connecting student parents with available resources and sponsoring events specifically for student parents. Visit our Events Calendar or email gotkids@hawaii.edu to join our email list.
What do you offer?
- Resources and referrals (academic, community, and social) for student parents at UH Mānoa.
- SP@M is located in the Queen Liliʻuokalani Center for Student Services (QLCSS) Room 211 provides comfortable lounge areas, Wi-Fi, computers, phones, lockers, a refrigerator, and a microwave for student use. The Women’s Center is a welcoming and safe space for all students and is “child friendly.”
I want to go to UH Mānoa—what should I do?
Start with our Back to College guide for application requirements and step-by-step guidance.
You can also contact SP@M at gotkids@hawaii.edu or call (808) 956-8059.
How can I get financial aid or scholarships?
All financial aid starts with completing the U.S. Department of Education’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
For more detailed information, visit the Financial Aid and Scholarships section of our Back to Collegeguide.
I need food, housing, or family assistance—what are my options?
Aloha United Way has an excellent referral system for community resources. Call 2-1-1 or (808) 275-2000.
How can I find childcare to attend classes?
Visit our Child Care Resources page for referrals, availability, and subsidy options.
PATCH (People Attentive to Children) is Hawaiʻi’s statewide child care resource and referral agency. Phone: (808) 839-1988.
I can’t afford childcare—how can I pay for it?
Child Care Connection subsidies may be available for parents who are working or attending school. Assistance may be available for families earning up to 85% of the state median income (which includes many Hawaiʻi families).
See our Child Care Resources page for details.
How can I get healthcare for my children?
The State Children’s Health Insurance Program (S-CHIP) may be available to families who cannot afford insurance for their children and meet income requirements.
Learn more here: mybenefits.hawaii.gov
Can I qualify for health insurance?
Adults may qualify for QUEST-Adult based on income. Visit the Hawaiʻi Medical Assistance site to review eligibility and apply.
Learn more here: medical.mybenefits.hawaii.gov
How can I get academic support on campus?
The Student Success Center at Sinclair Library and Student Support Services (SSS) offer a range of services, including peer support, tutoring, and computer labs.
How can I get parenting support and advice?
Call the Parent Line at 1-800-640-6486. This is a free and confidential service where parents can ask questions about parenting concerns (development, behavior, discipline strategies, and more) and receive referrals to helpful services and resources.
Is there a parent support group on campus?
SP@M is not a “support group,” but we can assist if you would like to organize a parent event. Email gotkids@hawaii.edu with your ideas.
Counseling options for me and/or my family?
The on-campus Counseling and Student Development Center (CSDC) provides personal, career, and education counseling free to UH Mānoa students. For student parents, family concerns can impact educational success and are appropriate topics for counseling.
I am pregnant—what are my options for finishing school?
The University Women’s Health Clinic and Planned Parenthood offer pregnancy testing and non-judgmental supportive counseling to help with decision-making.
If you decide to remain enrolled while pregnant, visit our Enrolled & Expecting page for academic planning resources.
Aloha United Way also offers community resource referrals (dial 2-1-1 or call (808) 275-2000). First, be sure to seek appropriate medical care.
Where can I find free or low-cost family events or activities?
Check our Free & Cheap Family Events Calendar for community and campus event ideas.
You can also download the Hawaiʻi Parent Guide (PDF) and browse our Budgeting Resources for money-saving tips and tools.
My question isn’t listed—who can I contact?
You can call (808) 956-8059 or email the SP@M Coordinator at gotkids@hawaii.edu.
Student Parents at Mānoa (SP@M)
2600 Campus Road • Honolulu, HI 96822 • QLCSS 211