MAUI WILDFIRES

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On Tuesday, August 8th, 2003, a wildfire swept through Maui island,  causing significant damage to homes and businesses. The town of Lahaina,  with its historic buildings, was particularly affected, leaving nothing  but ash and ruins. This tragic event has prompted a plea for support;  the people of Maui are in dire need of humanitarian aid to help them  recover. In this document, we offer guidance on how readers can assist –  whether through donations, volunteering, or raising awareness – and  contribute to the healing of Maui and its community. Your help can  significantly contribute to the healing process of Maui and its people.

You  can offer assistance directly to our activity providers and affiliates.  Your immediate support can expedite recovery efforts, enabling them to  resume their services and rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the  Maui Wildfire. If you are willing and able, we kindly encourage you to  extend your hand of help directly to these affected parties:

• Maui Off Road Adventures: Maui Off Road Adventures is a remarkable initiative that provides a  thrilling and immersive experience of Maui’s diverse landscapes. The  Maui Off Road team, affectionately known as “Ohana” in Hawaiian, has  suffered an unimaginable loss due to the recent wildfire. This  catastrophe has ravaged their homes, and their property, and threatened  their livelihood. Your support can prove instrumental in providing  shelter, supplying essentials, and restoring hope for our Ohana. Help  the Maui Off Road team reclaim their paradise, donate here.
• Trilogy Excursion: A renowned provider of sea adventures, has been significantly affected  by the Maui wildfires. Dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the  islands, they have always focused on sustainable tourism. Now, they are  seeking your help to overcome the challenge at hand. The donations  received will primarily be utilized to support their dedicated team of  employees, who have been adversely affected by this catastrophe. Visit  their GoFundMe page to donate.
• Pacific Whale Foundation: Their efforts to protect the ocean and its inhabitants have been deeply  valued within our community. Currently, they are facing significant  operational challenges due to the effects of the wildfire. The funds  received will primarily be used to support the foundation’s staff who  are dealing with severe losses and to restore some of the damaged  facilities and programs. Your generosity can help keep the spirit of  marine conservation alive in these trying times. More details will be  available on their ohana relief fund page.
• Feast at Lele: Known for their delectable Polynesian cuisine and authentic cultural  performances, they have been an integral part of Maui’s hospitality  industry. Now, they are knocking on your kind hearts for assistance as  they navigate through these trying times. 100% of the funds collected  will be primarily directed towards providing immediate relief to their  staff and their families, many of whom have lost more than just their  homes in the fires. Your donation will be a beacon of hope, helping  these individuals regain their footing. Visit their GoFundMe page to donate.
• Old Lahaina Luau: Old Lahaina Luau has been a beacon for preserving our rich cultural  heritage. The devastating fires have caused unthinkable damage to their  infrastructure, forcing them to temporarily stop their heartwarming  performances. The funds raised will be primarily used to support their  dedicated staff members. Help them recover and continue their mission of  sharing Hawaii’s cultural heritage. Donate here.
• Hawaii Ocean Rafting: This cherished provider of ocean adventures has not been left unscathed  by the Maui wildfires. This organization is known for its commitment to  protecting marine life and educating visitors about Hawaii’s unique  ocean ecosystem. At present, they are appealing to your spirit of Aloha  to help combat the challenges posed by the wildfires. The contributions  received will primarily be directed towards supporting their passionate  staff. We deeply appreciate your support during these turbulent times  and will keep you updated through their GoFundMe page.
• BKR (Our Brand Ambassador’s Relief Efforts for Lahaina): BKR has stepped forward in these trying times, launching a heartfelt  initiative to raise donations for Lahaina, a region severely affected by  the wildfires. BKR is not only a figure of influence to us, but also a  local hero committed to aiding the community’s recovery process. His  efforts focus on providing direct help to those who have lost their  homes and belongings in the fire. This is not just about rebuilding  structures—it’s about restoring lives and the sense of community.  Stay  tuned for updates on BKR’s GoFundMe page. Every bit of help counts, so please consider contributing and sharing the word about BKR’s fundraising mission.

Please bear in mind that the funds raised are not intended to support  our business operations. Instead, they are meant to alleviate the  immediate hardships faced by the employees, their families, and other  victims of the wildfire. This includes those who have lost their homes  and possessions in the devastating fires. By contributing, you’re  directly aiding those in urgent need, helping them to rebuild their  lives in the aftermath of this disaster. Stay tuned for updates on their  individual GoFundMe pages.

Distance  doesn’t limit your ability to help. One of the most effective ways to  contribute is through financial donations. Various organizations, both  local and national, are working tirelessly to provide relief aid to the  affected communities. Your generous aid, no matter how far away you are,  can make a significant difference during these challenging times. Here  are the verified platforms for your donations to ensure they reach the  intended recipients:

• Venmo Mutual Aid Initiative by Lahaina Residents – A group of compassionate Lahaina residents have mobilized to provide  direct financial support to those most affected. This mutual aid  initiative, centered on the use of Venmo, aims to extend assistance to  our neighbors who’ve tragically lost homes and loved ones in this  monumental catastrophe. By sharing the Venmo details of those in  desperate need, we can ensure that every dollar donated goes directly to  those who need it most.
• Hawaii Community Foundation Maui Strong Fund –  The Hawai’i Community Foundation, understanding the urgency of the  situation, has stepped up to form the Maui Strong Fund. This fund is  specifically designed to support communities hit hardest by the  wildfire. It aims to provide necessary resources for both immediate  response efforts and long-term recovery.
• Aloha United Way –  This fund will channel all contributions directly to relief efforts,  ensuring that help reaches those who need it most in the aftermath of  this devastating wildfire
• Hawaii Salvation Army – The Salvation Army is focused on ensuring that evacuees housed in  shelters across the island receive nourishing meals in this time of  crisis. It’s a concerted effort to not just feed their bodies, but also  to provide some comfort amid the upheaval.
• Maui Mutual Aid Fund –  The Maui Mutual Aid Fund takes a community-centered approach to  disaster relief, ensuring that all funds collected are distributed to  the most vulnerable ‘Ohana (families) in need. This includes disabled  community members, those lacking insurance protections, and renters who  may not have the financial buffer to deal with such devastating events.
• Maui Food Bank – The Maui Food Bank is not just about providing immediate relief; they  play a critical role in the longer-term recovery of the community. By  donating, you’re giving more than just food. You’re offering hope and a  path toward  recovery to those who have lost so much in the Maui  wildfire.
• Kakoo Maui Fund –  The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, the Alakaina Foundation  Family, and Kakoo Haleakala have shown their profound commitment to the  relief efforts. These generous organizations have pledged to match  donations made towards the Kakoo Maui fund, up to a combined total of  $100,000. The funds raised through these efforts are committed to  directly benefiting the families and businesses hardest hit by the Maui  wildfire.
• Hawaii Restaurant Association – Besides organizing  donations, the HRA is also facilitating volunteer efforts both on Maui,  where the wildfire is active, and on Oahu, where many evacuees have  sought refuge. Their efforts include setting up food drives, providing  meals for the evacuees, and mobilizing volunteers to assist in recovery  operations. Relief efforts on Maui here. Relief efforts for evacuees transported to Oahu here.
• GoFundMe’s Wildfire Relief Fund –  One of the remarkable benefits of donating to GoFundMe’s Wildfire  Relief Fund is that your generous contribution is managed and  distributed by experts. These professionals meticulously verify each  fundraising campaign and make certain that the grants reach those most  in dire need. This rigorous procedure helps to maintain transparency and  accountability.
• The sports community in Hawaii is rallying together  to support those impacted by recent events. ESPN Honolulu is leading  the charge by launching a fundraiser. To find out more information and  get involved, click here. Additionally, Oahu native and MMA fighter Ilima-Lei MacFarlane is also lending her support through a fundraiser on her Instagram page. Join them in making a difference.

For  those who are local and can provide tangible assistance, donations of  food, drinks, and snacks are greatly appreciated. Essential items for  infants such as baby formula and diapers are also urgently needed.  Clothing for adults, children, and infants, as well as bedding, pillows,  towels, and personal hygiene products, are other items that displaced  families require. These items can be dropped off at the following  designated locations, ensuring they reach those who need them the most

• Ice cream shop Cream B and Hoomana Barbell Gym — Ho’omana Barbell at 1826 Kaohu St., Wailuku, HI 96793
• Sparky’s Restaurant — 385 Hoohana Street, Suite 5C, Kahului, Hawaii 96732
• Paia Bay Coffee Bar — 120 Hana Hwy, Paia, Hawaii 96779
• War Memorial Complex — 700 Halia Nakoa St, Wailuku, Hawaii 96793 (enter via Kanaloa Avenue)

First  responders are working around the clock in challenging conditions to  ensure safety. Donating food and water is a tangible way to show our  support and contribute to their wellbeing. Look for these local  businesses and community centers which have been set up as drop-off  locations:

• The Boba Bar Paia + Anthony’s Coffee — 2 Baldwin Ave, Paia, HI 96779.
• Espresso Mafia Maui — 3617 Baldwin Ave, Makawao, Hawaii 96768
• Anytime Fitness Pukalani — 24 Kiopaa St, Makawao, Hawaii 96768
• Lumeria Maui Retreat Center — 1813 Baldwin Ave, Makawao, Hawaii 96768
• Maluhia Collective — 1960 Main St, Wailuku, Hawaii 96793
• Hi-Tech Store — 425 Koloa St, Kahului, Hawaii 96732
• Ice cream shop Cream B and Hoomana Barbell Gym — Ho’omana Barbell at 1826 Kaohu St., Wailuku, HI 96793.

Please refrain from directly donating items to fire stations, as per the request of local officials.

They particularly recommend items that are easy to consume and high  in energy, such as protein bars and nuts. Sandwiches, wraps, burritos,  and musubis provide substantial nourishment to sustain them during their  demanding work. Fresh-cut fruit is also appreciated for its hydration  and nutritional value. As for beverages, water, juice, and hydration  drinks are most needed to keep the firefighters well-hydrated. Your  thoughtful consideration toward the specific needs of our brave firemen  is greatly appreciated.

Help the Maui Humane Society by  fostering an animal. The shelter needs  space to accommodate more  displaced pets. Whether you are a resident or living outside of Hawaii,  there are various ways to support the shelter:

• Provide pet supplies to families who have been displaced but still have their animals.
• Donate to help the shelter meet the growing demand for care.
• Report any lost or found pets through the designated platform.
• For additional information, call (808) 877-3680 or visit the shelter’s website.

According  to the Hawaii Red Cross, several shelters have been established across  the island to provide refuge for those affected by the fire. These  shelters are located at strategic points to ensure easy access for those  in need.  It’s also crucial to respect the privacy and dignity of  shelter residents during these challenging times.  For those wishing to support, donations of food, clothing, and essential supplies to these shelters are invaluable:

• Hannibal Tavares Community Center — 91 Pukalani St, Makawao, Hawaii 96768
• Lahaina Civic Center — 1840 HI-30, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
• Kihei Community Center — 303 E Lipoa St, Kihei, Hawaii 9675
• Waimea Community Center — 65-1260 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, Hawaii 96743
• Hisaoka Gym — Kamehameha Park, 54-382 Kamehameha Park Rd, Kapaau, Hawaii 96755
• Maui High School — 660 Lono Ave, Kahului, HI 96732, United States
• Hannibal Tavares Community Center — 91 Pukalani St, Makawao, HI 96768, United States
• War Memorial Complex — 700 Halia Nakoa St. Wailuku, Maui, HI 97693
• Oskie Rice Arena (for farm and ranch animals only) — Olinda Rd, Makawao, HI 96768, USA

Maui County has confirmed that emergency shelters do not provide  evacuees with bedding and toiletries. Additionally, pet owners are  required to properly secure their animals. If you are searching for  someone affected by the fires, you can contact the American Red Cross  hotline at 1-800-733-2767 for assistance.

Volunteering  your time and effort is another impactful way to assist those affected  by the Maui wildfire. Various organizations are coordinating volunteer  activities that include aiding at temporary shelters, assisting in food  and water distribution, and providing emotional support to those  impacted by the disaster.

One can also get involved in post-fire recovery efforts such as tree  planting initiatives and restoration of damaged public amenities. If you  have specific skills, such as construction or counseling, those can be  extremely beneficial in the recovery phase. Before volunteering, ensure  that you connect with a recognized organization that adheres to safety guidelines to protect all parties involved.  Remember, every effort counts and collectively, we can help rebuild the  lives and the environment that this wildfire has devastated.

Safety  should always be at the forefront in times of wildfires, and there are  specific precautions that local residents can take to protect themselves  and their property. Taking these steps is a collective responsibility  that we all share. Here are some simple but effective tips:

• Create a Defensible Space: Clear your property of  flammable vegetation within a 30-foot radius of your home. This includes  dry grass, dead leaves, and overhanging branches, which can act as fuel  for wildfires.
• Develop an Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself  and your family with all potential exit routes from your home. Establish  a pre-designated meeting place should you have to evacuate hastily.
• Assemble an Emergency Supply Kit: Have a kit ready with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, and clothing.
• Stay Informed: Keep abreast with the latest updates provided by local authorities and heed their advice promptly.
• Use N95 Masks: These masks can protect you from inhaling smoke and small particles in the air prevalent during wildfires.
• Avoid Returning Home Until Deemed Safe: Wait for  officials to declare your area safe before returning home. Remember,  safety should always take precedence over material possessions.

By adopting these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk and potential impact of wildfires on your home and loved ones.

It’s  crucial to remember that each one of us has the power to make a  positive impact and help our communities recover in the wake of a  disaster like the Maui wildfire. We strongly encourage you to share this  information with friends, family, and fellow community members. Whether  it’s through social media, email, or word of mouth, your efforts to  spread awareness can have a significant effect.

Moreover, consider directly supporting the recovery efforts. Your  donations, participation in local cleanup initiatives, and proactive  steps toward wildfire prevention are invaluable contributions to the  healing and rebuilding of our affected communities. Every action counts,  no matter how small it may seem. Now more than ever, your community  needs your help and support.