The federal economic stimulus package includes a 13.6 percent increase in monthly cash benefits for low-income residents on food stamps, starting in April.

The package, approved by Congress and President Obama, contains $20 billion nationwide for increases in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The state Department of Human Services says about 110,000 Hawai'i residents receive food stamps.

The monthly payments under food stamps vary by household size. According to the department, a three-member household would see their benefit rise from $725 to $824.

Lillian Koller, the department's director, said some people who are eligible for food stamps are reluctant to apply because they mistakenly equate the program with welfare. The federal government changed the name of the program to reduce the stigma, although it is still commonly referred to as food stamps.

"During these challenging economic times, we urge everyone who is eligible for SNAP to take advantage of this valuable nutrition benefit," Koller said.

The department also plans to try to expand the income eligibility requirements so more families would qualify. The department may also provide five months of food stamp benefits as an incentive for people who are leaving welfare because their incomes have increased.

Earlier this session, state senators wanted to relax eligibility requirements to get more people into the food stamp program. But lawmakers dropped the idea after the department said the legislation could impact other social-service programs.

An estimated 72 percent of people in Hawai'i who are eligible for food stamps are in the program. Lawmakers said increasing participation to 90 percent would bring in an additional $45 million in federal money each year.

"It's a welcome addition to Hawai'i's safety net," state Senate Majority Leader Gary Hooser, D-7th (Kaua'i, Ni'ihau), said of the increase from the stimulus package. "It will help the families that need it most and provide significant economic activity."