Hawaii is joining an online effort to connect money-saving ideas and government benefits with residents who need them.

Gov. Linda Lingle announced yesterday the state will participate in the WE Connect campaign, which was started by California first lady Maria Shriver in 2005.

The WE Connect website attempts to bring resources to the attention of those who could use them, including residents who could be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit, a refundable federal income tax credit for people with low incomes.

The website also links to food pantry locations, tax help sites, job postings, career fairs, free legal help resources, and internship and volunteer opportunities.

Lingle says the effort will provide Hawaii working families with more ways to find help during difficult economic times.