Consumer Education
The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs has 12 offices and divisions. DCCA has a team of education specialists who go out into the community to provide consumer information about a number of issues
Hurricanes, or tropical cyclones, are well known in our Hawaiian Islands. Many of them pass by without any major damage, but some, like Hurricane Iwa (1982) and Hurricane Iniki (1992) cause havoc to our homes and businesses. Here are some ways homeowners and businesses can protect themselves before and after the storm.
Hawaii is home to 47,000 active duty service members and 5,500 National Guard personnel—many of whom face unique challenges due to permanent change of stations. To assist in consumer education for the military and their families, a Military Consumer Fraud Guide is now available for the public courtesy of DCCA.
The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is committed to helping Hawaii’s residents of all ages. Hawaii’s kupuna (senior citizens) can be among the most targeted for fraud and scams. We have gathered materials here for kupuna and their family or caregivers to help prepare and protect them from these scammers.
DCCA is made up of 12 offices and divisions. Here are some of the materials available from those offices and divisions.
A guide to evaluating if a school is right for you and avoiding diploma mills.
Visit DCCA informational booths at community events across the state. Find useful information on preventing fraud and pick up helpful brochures on many consumer issues. If you are interested in having DCCA at your event, please contact the programs listed below for availability. Our Consumer Education programs are available for your community event.
Consumer Education Program 586-2760
Division of Consumer Advocacy Education Program 586-2800
Insurance Education Program 586-2790
Investor Education Program 587-7400
Here’s a quick look at some of our sponsored events. For details about these events or for more information on Consumer Education Outreach, go to the DCCA Calendar of Educational Events
NCPW Consumer Fair
Celebrating National Consumer Protection Week the first Wednesday of March with a consumer fair in downtown Honolulu at the DCCA Courtyard at 335 Merchant Street. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Consumer Education Program at 586-2760.
Financial Literacy Fair
Kicking off Financial Literacy Month with a financial fair at Tamarind Park in downtown Honolulu the first Wednesday in April. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Investor Education Program at 587-7400.
LifeSmarts State Competition
The LifeSmarts Program is a consumer education competition teaching students about life skills. Program runs August through December. Event is free and open to the public. Click here for more information.