OHA consumer loan officer Tracy Mattos reviews application from Native Hawaiian borrower. Photo: Alice Silbanuz

HONOLULU (April 26, 2012) - From behind her desk at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Tracy Mattos has bailed many families out of emergencies.

She has been OHA's friendly consumer loan officer.

OHA's Consumer Micro-Loan Program makes up to $7,500 available to eligible Native Hawaiians, who are experiencing an unforeseen emergency. Examples include funeral expenses as well as emergency home and auto