Homeowners in Hawaii who have taken precautions and steps to strengthen their homes against hurricanes may be eligible for grant money from the state.

According to the Insurance Journal, qualified homeowners could stand to get one-third of their costs covered by the Loss Mitigation Grant Program, which will begin next month. State Insurance Commissioner J.P. Schmidt said that about $4 million is available for the program this year, and an additional $2 million will be available next year. The goal, Schmidt said, is to increase state protection against natural disasters, as well as to lessen the impact of those disasters.

While a more in-depth description of the program will be available via the Web in October, IJ reports that eligibility requirements include things like foundation strengthening, roof wood sheathing fastening and roof-to-wall restraint ties.

Thumbs up, Hawaii. This sounds like a great way to protect properties and encourage residents to be proactive in disaster prevention and protection. Well done.