Hawaii’s senators say $14 million in federal money is flowing to health and wellness programs for Native Hawaiians.

U.S. Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka, both Democrats representing Hawaii, announced the funding from the U.S. Department of Health on Wednesday.

The money will go toward preventative care, traditional health practices and general health services.

Inouye said the funding is needed because Native Hawaiians are disproportionately susceptible to heart disease, diabetes and certain forms of cancer.  

Akaka said the money will provide Papa Ola Lokahi and the Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems stability.